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A 



JOURNAL 



OF THE 



LIFE, GOSPEL LABORS, 



AND 



CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES 

OF THAT 

FAITHFUL MINISTER OF JESUS CHRIST, 

JOHN WOOLMAN, 



* i 



LATE OF MOUNT-HOLLY, IN THE PROVINCE OF NEW JERSEY, 

NORTH AMERICA. 



to which are added, his last epistle, and other writings. 

Isaiah xxxii. 17. 
The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of 
righteousness, quietness and assurance for ever. 



NEW YORK: 
COLLINS, BROTHER, & Co., 254 PEARL ST. 

NEW BEDFORD: 

WM. C. TABER & SON. 

1S45. 



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CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 

Page. 

J. W's. birth and parentage. — Some account of the operations oF Di- 
vine grace on his mind in his youth. — His first appearance in the 
ministry — and his considerations while young on the keeping of 
slaves. 18 

CHAPTER II. 

His first journey on a religious visit, into East Jersey. — Thoughts on 
merchandizing, and learning a trade. Second journey into Pennsyl- 
vania, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina — Third journey 
through part of West and East Jersey. — Fourth journey through New 
York and Long Island, to New England. — Fifth journey, to the East- 
ern fihore of Maryland, and the lower Counties on Delaware . 23 

CHAPTER III. 

His Marriage. — The death of his father. — His journeys into the upper 
part of New Jersey, and afterwards into Pennsylvania. — Considera- 
tions on keeping slaves, and visits to the families of friends at sev- 
eral times and places. — An epistle from the general meeting. — His 
journey to Long Island. — Considerations on trading, and on the use 
of spirituous liquors and costly apparel. Letter to a friend . . 30 

CHAPTER IV. 

Visit to the families of friends at Burlington. — Journey to Pennsylvania, 
Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. — Considerations on the 
state of friends there; and the exercise he was under in travelling 
among those so generally concerned in keeping slaves; with some 
observations on this subject. — Epistle to friends at New Garden and 
Cane Creek. — Thoughts on the neglect of a religious care in the 
education of the negroes 43 

CHAPTER V. 

Considerations on the payment of a tax, laid for carrying on the war 
against the Indians. — Meetings of the committee of the yearly meeting 
at Philadelphia. — Some notes on Thomas a Kempis, and John 
Huss. — The present circumstances of friends in Pennsylvania and 
New Jersey very different from those of our predecessors. — Th^ 



X 

draughting of the inilitia in New Jersey to serve in the army; 
with some observations on the state of the members of our society at 
that time. — Visit to friends in Pennsylvania, accompanied by Ben- 
jamin Jones. — Proceedings at the monthly, quarterly, and yearly 
meetings in Philadelphia, respecting those who keep slaves . 61 

CHAPTER VI. 

Visit to the quarterly meetings in Chester county. — Joins Daniel Stnnton 
and John Scarborough, in a visit to such as kept slaves there. — Some 
observations on the conduct which those should maintain who speak 
in meetings for discipline. — More visits to such as kept slaves, and 
to friends near Salem. — Account of the yearly meeting in the year 
1753. — and of the increasing concern in divers provinces, to labor 
against buying and keeping slaves. — The yearly meeting epistle. — 
'I'houghtsou the small-pox spreading, and on inoculation . 71 

CHAPTLR VI I. 

Visit, in company with Samuel Eastburn, to Long Island, Rhode Island, 
Boston, &c. — Remarks on the slave trade at Newport; also on lot- 
teries. — Some observations on the island of Nantucket . . 83 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Visits Pennsylvania, Shrewsbury, and Squan. — Publishes the second 
part of his Considerations on keeping negroes — ^J'he grounds of his 
appearing in son)e respects singular in his dross. — Visit to the fami- 
lies of friends of Ancocas and Mount Holly meetings. Visits to the 
Indians at VVehaloosing on the river Susqehaunah . . .95 

CHAPTER IX. 

Keligious conversation with a company met to see the tricks of a jug- 
gler. — Account of John Smith's advice, and of the proceedings of a 
committee, at the yearly meeting in 1764. — Contenfplalions on the 
nature of true wisdom. — Visit to the fatnijies of friends at Mount 
Holly, Mansfield, and Burlington, and to the meetings on the sea 
coast from Cape May towards Squan. — Some account of Joseph Ni- 
chols and his followers. — On the different state of the first settlers in 
Pennsylvania who depended on their own labor, compared with 
those of the southern provinces who kept negroes. — Visit to the 
Northern parts of New Jersey, and the Western parts of jMaryland 
and Pennsylvania, also to the families of friends at Mount Holly 
and several parts of IMaryland. Further considerations on keeping 
slaves; and his concern for having been a party to the sale of 
one. — Thoughts on friends exercising offices in civil government 117 

CHAPTER X. 

Bodily indisposition. — Exercise of his mind for the good of the people 
in the West Indies. — Communicates to friends his concern to visit 
some of those islands. — Preparations to embark. — Considerations 



Page. 

on the trade to the West ladies. — Release from his concern and 
return home. — Religious engagements. —Sickness and exercise of 
his mind there ......... 129 

CHAPTER XI. 

Embarks at Chester, with Samuel Emlen, in a ship bound for London. — 
Exercise of mind respecting the hardships of the sailors — Considera- 
tions on the dangers of training youth to a seafaring life. — Thoughts 
during a storm at sea. — Arrival in London . . . 136 

CHAPTER XIL 

Attends the yearly meeting in London. — Then proceeds towards York- 
shire. — Visits quarterly and other meetings in the counties of Hert- 
ford, Warwick, Oxford, Nottingham, York and V/estmoreland. — 
Returns to Yorkshire. — Instructive observations and letters. — Hears 
of the decease of William Hunt. — Some account of him. — The au- 
thor's last illness and death at York ..... 149 

APPENDIX. 

Account of Elizabeth Woolman. ...... 165 

Testimony of Friends in Yorkshire concerning John Woolman 168 

Testimony of Friends in Burlington concerning John Woolman 172 



Considerations on the keeping of negroes — Part the first. . 179 

■ Part the second. . 194 

Considerations on Pure Wisdom, and Human Policy; on Labor, on 

Schools, &c 222 

Considerations on the True Harmony of Mankind, &c. Chapter I. 236 

Ditto, Chapter II. On the Example of Christ. . . . 243 

Ditto, Chapter III. On Merchandizing 246 

Ditto, Chapter IV. On Divine Admonitions. . . . 253 

Remarks on Sundry Subjects. Chap. I. On Loving our neighbor. 256 

Ditto, 'Chapter IV. On Silent Worship 269 

An Epistle to the Quarterly and Monthly Meetings of Friends. 271 

A Word of Remembrance and Caution to the Rich. . . 285 

A Tribute to the Memory of John Woolman, by Bernard Barton. 307 



JOURNAL 

OF THE LIFE AND TRAVELS OF 

JOHN 'WOOL.MAN 

IN THE SERVICE OF THE GOSPEL. 



CHAPTER I. 
1720—1742, 

His birth and pare.n1a.ge. — Some account of the Gperaiions of divint 
grace on his mind in Ids youth. — His first appearance in ilie ministry — 
and his considerations, while young, on Vie keeping of slaves. 

I have often felt a motion of love to leave some bints 
in writing of tny experience of the goodness of God; and 
now, in the thirty-sixth year of my age, 1 begin this work, 

I was born in Northampton, in Burlington County, West 
Jersey, in the year 1720. Before I was seven years old 
I began to be acquainted wiih the operations of divine 
love. Through the care of my parents, I was taught to 
read nearly as soon as I was capable of it; and as I went 
from school one day, I remember that while my compan- 
ions were playing by the way, I went forward out of sight, 
and sitting down I read the 22nd chapter of the Revelations: 
** He showed rae a pure river of water of life, clear as 
crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the 
Lamb, &c." In reading it, my mind was drawn to seek 
after that pure habitation which I then believed God had 
prepared for his servants. The place where I sat, and 
the sweetness that attended my n)ind, remain fresh in my 

2 



14 THEJOURNALOF 

memory. This, and the like gracious visitations, had 
SlrIi an efTect u\um nie, that wlien boys used ill language, 
it troubled me; and, ihtough the continued mercies of 
God, 1 was prescirved from that evil. 

Tlie pious instructions of my parents were often fresh 
in my mind, when I happened to be among wicked chil- 
dren', and were of use to me. Having a large family of 
children, they used freq-.ienily, on firsl-days after nieeling, 
to set us one after another to read the holy scriptures, or 
some religious books, the rest sitting by without much con- 
versation; I have since often tliougiu it was a good prac- 
tice. From what I had rc;id and heard, 1 believed 
there had been, in past ages, people who walked in up- 
rightness before God, in a degree exceeding any that I 
knew or heard of now living: and the apprehension of 
there being less steadiness and firmness amongst people in 
the present age, often troubled me while I was a child. 

I mav here mention a remarkable circumstance that oc- 
rnrred in my childhood. On going to a neighbor's house, 
I saw on the way a robin silting on her nest, and as I 
came near she went (iff; bvU having young ones, she flew 
about, and with many cries expressed her concern for 
them. I stood and ihiew stones at tier, and one striking 
her, she fell down dea<l. At first I was pleased with 
the exploit, but after a few minutes was seized wiih horror, 
at leaving, in a sportive way, killed an innocent creature 
while she was careftd for Iier young. I beheld her lying 
dead, and liiought those yoimg ones, for which sh.e was so 
careful, must now perish for want of their dam to nourish 
them. After some painfid considerations on the subject, 
I climbed up the tree, took all the young Ijirds, and kill- 
led them; supposing that better tfian to leave them to [)ine 
away and die miserably. In this case I believed that 
scripture proverb was fulfilled, *' 'J he tender mercies of the 
wicked are cruel." I then went on my errand, and for 
some hours could think of little else but the cruellies I had 
committed, and was much troubled. 'J'hus He, whose ten- 
der mercies are over all his works, hath placed a principle 
in the human mind, uhicli incites to exercise goodness to- 
wards every living creature; and this being singly attended 



JOHN WOOLMAN. 15 

to, people become tender-hearted and sympathizing; but 
when frequently and totaliy rt^ected, the mind becomes 
shut np in a contrary disposition. 

About the twelfth year of my age, my father being abroad, 
my mother reproved me for some misconduct, to which I 
made an undntiful re()ly. The next fiist day, as I was with 
my father returning from meeting, lie told me that he un- 
derstood I had behaved amiss to my mother, and advised 
me to be more careful in future. 1 knew myself blameal)le, 
and in shame and confusion remained silent. Being thus 
awakened to a sense of my wickedness, I felt renjorse in 
my mind, and, on getting home, I retired and prayed to 
the Lord to forgive me; and f do not remember that I ever 
afterwards spoke unhandsomely to either of my parents, 
however foohsh in sotne other things. 

Having attained the age of sixteen years, I began to love 
wanton company; and though I was preserved from pro- 
fane language, or scandalous conduct, yet I perceived a 
plant in me which produced much wild grapes: my merci- 
ful Father did not however forsake me utterly, but at times, 
through his grace, I was brought seriously to consider my 
ways; and the sight of my backslidings tiffected me with 
sorrow; yet for want of rightly attending to the reproofs of 
instruction, vanity was added to vanity, and repentance to 
repentance. Upon the whole, my mind became more and 
more alienated froin the trcth, and I hastened toward 
destruction. While I meditate on the sulf towards which 
I travelled, and reflect on my youthful disobedience, for 
these things I weep, mine eye runneth down with water. 

Advancing in age, the number of my acquaintance in- 
creased, and tliereby my way grew uiore difficult. Though 
I had found comfort in readiiig the holy scri()tures, and 
thinking on heavenly things, I was now estrangetl there- 
from. I knew I was going from the fiock of Christ, and 
bad no resolution to return; hence serious reflections were 
uneasy to me, and youtiiful vanities and diversions were my 
greatest pleasure. In this road I found many like myself; 
and we associated in that which is adverse to true friend- 
ship. 

in this swift race it pleased God to visit me with sick- 



16 THEJOURNALOF 

ness, so that I doubted of recovery; then did darkness, 
horror, and an)azeinent, with full force seize me, even when 
my pain and distress of body were very great. I thought 
it would have been better for me never to iiave had being, 
than to see the day which I now saw. I was filled witi) 
confusion; and in great affliction, both of mind and body, 
I lay and bewailed myself. I had not confidence to lift 
up my cries to God, whom I had thus offended; but, in a 
deep sense of my great folly, I was humbled before him. 
At length, that word which is as a fire and a hammer, 
broke and dissolved my rebellious heart; n)y cries were put 
up in contrition; and in the multitude of his mercies I found 
inward relief, and a close engagement, that if he was pleas- 
ed to restore my heaUb, I might walk humbly before him. 

After my recovery, this exercise remained with me a 
considerable time; but by degrees giving way to youthful 
vanities, and associating with wanton young people, J lost 
ground. The Lord had been very gracious, and spoke 
peace to me in the time of my distress, and I now most 
ungratefully turned again to folly; at times I felt sharp re- 
proof, but I did not get low enough to cry for help. I 
was not so hardy as to commit things scandalous; but to 
exceed in vanity, and to promote mirth, .vas my chief study. 
Still I retained a love and esteem for pious people; and 
their company brought an awe upon me. My dear parents 
several times admonished me in the fear of the Lord, and 
their admonition entered into my heart, and had a good ef- 
fect for a season; but not getting deep enough to pray 
rightly, the tempter when he came found entrance. Once 
having spent a part of the day in w^antonness, when I went 
to bed at night there lay in a window, near my bed, a bi- 
ble, which I opened, and first cast my eye on the text, 
*' We lie down in our shame, and our confusion covers us." 
This I knew to be my case; and meeting with so unex- 
pected a reproof, I was somewhat affected with it, and 
went to bed under remorse of conscience; which I soon 
cast off again. 

Thus time passed on; my heart was replenished with 
mirth and wantonness, while pleasing scenes of vanity 
were presented to my imagination, till I attained the age of 



J tl N IV O L ftl A N . 17 

elgivteen years; near whicl) lime I felt ihe jud^mejiis of 
God in r);y soiil, like a consnuiing fire; and lookitii;, over my 
past life, ihe j.ro^pect was moving, 1 was ofien sad, and 
longed to be delivered from tliose vanilies; llieii again, my 
heart was stronalv inclined lo tliem, and llieie was in me a 
sore conflict. At limes I twrtied lo folly, and tlsen again 
sorrow and confusion took hold of me. In a while 1 re- 
solved totally to leave off some of my vanilies; Imt iliere 
was a secret reserve in my lieari, of the more refined part 
of them, afjd I was net low enough lo find t;iie peace. 
Tims, for some siionlhs I had great trouhles; my will was 
unsulijecled, v\hich rendered my labors fiuiiless. At 
length, through the merciful continuance of heaveiily visi- 
tations, I was made to bow down in sjiirit before ihe Lord, 
One evening I had spent some titue in reading a [lious au- 
thor; and walking out alone, I humbly prayed loihe Lord 
for his help, that I might be delivered from all those vani- 
ties which so ensnared me. TIius being brought low, lie 
helped me; and as I learned to bear the cross, I felt re- 
freshment to come from his presence; but not kee[)ing in 
that strength which gave victory, I lost ground again; the 
sense of which greatly aflected me.- I sought deserts and 
lonely places, and there with tears did confess my sins to 
God, and humbly craved his help. And I may say with 
reverence, he was near to me in my troubles, and in those 
times of humiliation opened my ear to discij)line. 1 was 
now lead to look seriously at the means by which I was 
draw-n from the pure truth, and learned that if I would live 
such a life as the faithful servants of God lived, I must not 
go into company us heretofore in my own will; but all the 
cravings of sense must be governed by a divine princijile. 
In times of sorrow and abasement these instructions were 
sealed upon me, and I fell ihe power oi Christ prevail over 
selfish des.res, so ihat I was [)reserved in a good degree of 
steadifjess; and being young, and believing at that time that 
B single life was best for me, I was strengthened to keep 
from such cotii|'any as had often been a snare to me. 

I kept steadily to meetings; spent first day afternoons 
chiefly in reading the scri|)tures and other good bocks; and 
was early convinced in mv mind, that true religion consist- 



18 THEJOURNALOF 

ed in an inward life, wherein the heart doth love and rev- 
erence God the Greater, and learns to exercise true justice 
and goodness, not only toward all men, but also toward the 
bruie creatures — that as the rnind was moved, by an inward 
principle, to love God as an invisible, incomprehensible 
Being; so by the same princi[)le, it was moved to love him 
in all his manifestations in the visible world — that as by his 
breath, the flange of life was kindled in all animal sensible 
creatures, to say we love God as unseen, and at the same 
time exercise cruelty toward the least creature moving by 
his life, or by life derived fiom him, was a contradiction in 
itself. I found no narrowness respecting sects and opin- 
ions; but believed that sincere uprigbt hearted people, in 
every society, who truly love God, were accepted of him. 

As I lived under the cross, and simply followed the 
opening of truth, my mind, from day to day, was n)ore 
enlightened; my former acquaintance were left to judge of 
me as they would, for I found it safest for me to live in pri- 
vate, and keep these things sealed up in my own breast. 
While I silently ponder on that change wrought in me, I 
6nd no language equal to convey to another a clear idea of 
it. I looked upon the works of God in this visible crea- 
tion, and an awfulness coveied me. My heart was tender 
and often contrite, and universal love to my fellow crea- 
tures increased in me. This will be understood by such 
as have trodden in the same path. Some glances of real 
beauty may be seen in their faces, who dwell in true meek- 
ness. There is a harmony in the sound of that voice to 
which divine love gives utier.mce, and some appearance of 
right order in their temper and conduct, whose passions are 
regulated; yet these do not fully show forth that inward 
life to those who have not felt it; this while stone and new 
name is only known rightly by such as receive it. 

Now, tiiough I had been thus strengthened to bear the 
cross, T still found myself in great danger, having many 
weaknesses attending me, and strong temptations to wrestle 
with; in the feeling whereof I frequently withdrew into pri- 
vate places, and often with tears besought the Lord to help 
me, and his gracious ear was open to my cry. 

All this time 1 lived with my parents, and wrought on the 



J II N IV O L M A N . 19 

plantation; and having had schooling pretty well for a 
planter, I used to improve inyselt in winter evenings, 
and other leisure times. Being now in the twenty-first 
year of my age, with my father's coiisent I engaged with a 
man, in much husiness as a shop-keeper and baker, to 
tend shop and keep books. At home I had lived retired; 
and now having a prospect of being much in the way of 
company, I felt frequent and fervent cries in my heart to 
God, the Father of mercies, tl)at he would preserve me 
from all taint and corruption; that, in this more pulihc em- 
ployment, I might serve Him, my gracious Redeemer, in 
that humihty and self-denial, wliich 1 had in a small degree 
exercised in a niore private life. 

M'he man who employed me, furnished a shop in Mouit 
Holly, about five miles from my father's house, and six 
from liis own; and there I lived alone and tended his shop. 
Shortly after my settlement here, I was visited by several 
young people my former acquaintance, who supposed that 
vanities would be as agreeable to me now as ever. At these 
timesi cried to the Lord in secret for wisdom and strength; 
for I lelt myself encompassed with difficulties, and had 
fresh occasion to bewail the follies of times past, in con- 
tracting a familiarity with libertine people; and as I had 
now left my father's house outwardly, I found my heaven- 
ly Father to be merciful to me beyond what I can express. 

By day I was much amongst people, and bad many 
trials to go through; but in the evenings I was mostly 
alo::e, and I may with thankfulness acknowledge, that in 
those times the spirit of supplication was often poured upon 
me; under which I was frequently exercised, and felt my 
strength renewed. 

After a while, my former acquaintance gave over expect- 
ing me as one of their company; and I began lo be 
known to some whose conversation was helpful to me. 
And now, as I had experienced the love of God, through 
Jesus Christ, to redeem me from many pollutions, and 
lo be a succour to n)e through a sea of conflicts, with 
which no person was fully acquainted; and as my heart was 
often enlarged in this heavenly principle, I felt a tender 
compassion for the youth, who remained entangled in snares 



20 TIIEJOUKNALOF 

like those wliicli had entangled ine. This love and tender- 
ness intrreaseci; and my mind was strongly engaged lor the 
good of my fellow-crojaiures. I went to meetings in an 
awfid h'ame of mind, and endeavored to he inwardly ao 
quainled with the language of the irne Shepherd. One 
day l)eing under a strong exercise of spirit, I stood up, 
and said some words in a meeting; hnt not keeping close 
to the divine Oj)enin2;, I said more llian w^as reqniied of 
me. Bjing soon sensihie of my error, I was adlicted in 
mind some weeks, widioni any light or conjCort, even to that 
detrree that I ronld not take satisfaction in anv ihin*^. J 
rememhered God, and was tronhled; and in the depth of 
my distress^ he had pity upon ine, and sent the Cond'orter. 
I then felt forgiveness for my offence; my mind became 
calm and qniet, and I was truly thankful to m} gracious 
Redeemer for his mercies. About six weeks after this, 
eeling tlie sj)ring of divine love opened, and a concern to 
speak, I said a few words in a meetins;, in wlii( h 1 found 
peace. Being thus hnmhled and disciplined under the cr( s>, 
my understanding became rrjore strengthened to distinguish 
the pure spirit wl)ich inwardly moves upon the heart, and 
which taught me to wait in silence sometimes many weeks 
together, until 1 felt that rise whic h prepares the creature 
to stand like a trumpet, through which the Lord speaks to 
liis flock. 

Fro M an inward purifying, and ste^jdfast abiding under it, 
springs a lively operative desire for the good of others. 
All the faithful are not called to the |)ublic ministry; 
but whoever are, are called to minister of that which 
they have tasted and handled spiritually. The outward 
modes of worship are various; but wiienever any are 
true ministers of Jesus Christ, it is from the operation of 
his si)irit upon their hearts, first purifying thenj, and thus 
giving them a jnst sense of the conditions of others. 'I'his 
truth was early fixed in my mind; and I was taught to watch 
the p'.ire opening, anfl to tak;^ heed lest, while [ was stand- 
ing to speak, my own will slioiild get uppermost, and cause 
me to utter words from wordly wisdom, and depart from 
the channel of the true gospel ministry. 

In the management of my outward affairs, I may say 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 21 

with thankfulness, I found truth to be my support; and 
I was respected in my master's family, who came to live in 
Mount Holly within two years after my going there. 

In a few months after I came here, my master bought 
several Scotchmen servants, from on board a vessel, and 
brought them to Mount Holly to sell; one of whom was 
taken sick and died. In the latter part of his sickness, 
being delirious, he used to curse and swear most sorrowful- 
ly; and the next night after his huri' 1, I was left to sleep 
alone in the chamber wheie he died. I perceived in me a 
timorousness; I knew, however, T had not injured the man, 
but assisted in taking care of him according to my capacity. 
I was not free to ask any one, on that occasion to sleep 
with me. Nature was feeble; but every trial was a fresh 
incitement to give myself up wholly to the service of God, 
for I found no helper like him in times of trouble. 

About the twenty-tliird year of my age, I had many fresh 
and heavenly openings, in respect to the care and j)rovi- 
dence of the Almighty over his creatures in general, and 
over man as the most noble amongst those which are visi- 
ble. And being clearly convinced in my judgment, that 
to place my whole trust in God was best for me, I felt re- 
newed engagements that in all things I might act on an in- 
ward principle of virtue, and pursue vvordly business no 
further, than as truth opened my way. 

About the tin)e called Christmas, I observed many peo- 
ple both in town and from the country, resorting to public- 
houses, and spending their time in drinking and vain sports, 
tending to corrupt one another; on which account I was 
much troubled. At one house in particular there was 
much disorder; and I believed it was a duty incmi)bent on 
me to speak to the master of that house. I considered I 
was young, and that several elderly friends in town had op- 
portunity to sec these things; but though I would gladly 
have been excused, yet I could not feel my mind clear. 

The exercise was heavy; and as I was reading what the 
Almighty said to Ezekiel, respecting his duty as a watch- 
man, the matter was set home more clearly. With pray- 
ers and tears, I besought the Lord for his assistance, and 
He, in loving kindness, gave me a resigned heart. At a 



22 THEJOURNALOF 

suitable opportunity I went to the public-house; and seeing 
the man amongst much company, I called him aside, and 
in the fear and dread of the Almighty, expressed to him 
what rested on my mind. He took it kindly, and after- 
wards showed more regard to me than before. In a few 
years afterwards l.e died, n)iddle-aged; and 1 often thought, 
that had I neglected my duty in that case, it would have 
given me great trouble; and I was humbly thankful to my 
gracious Father, who had supported me herein. 

My employer having a negro woman, sold her, and de- 
sired me to write a bill of sale, the man being waiting who 
bought her. The thing was sudden; and though I felt un- 
easy at the thoughts of writing an instrument of slavery for 
one of my fellow-creatures, yet I remembered that I was 
hired by the year, that it was my master who directed me 
to do it, and that it was an elderly man, a member of our 
society, who bought her; so through weakness, I gave 
way, and wrote it; but, at the executing of it, 1 was so af- 
flicted in my nund, that J said before my master and the 
friend, that I believed slave-keeping to be a practice incon- 
sistent with the Christian religion. This, in some degree, 
abated my uneasiness; yet as often as 1 reflected seriously 
upon it, 1 thought I should have been clearer, if 1 had de- 
sired to be excused from it, as a thing against my con- 
science; for such it was. Some time after this, a young 
man of our society, spoke to me to write a~ conveyance of 
a slave to him; he having lately taken a negro into his 
house. I told him I was uot easy to write it; for, thougli 
many of our meeting and in other places kept slaves, I still 
believed the practice was not righi; and desired to be ex- 
cused from the writing. 1 spoke to him in good will; and 
be told me that keeping slaves was not altogether agreea- 
ble to his mind; but that the slave being a gift made lo his 
wife, he had accepted her. 



JOHN WOOL MAN. 23 

CHAPTER II. 
1743—1743. 

His fi rat journey, on a religious visit, in East Jersey. — Tiiovc;liis on 
merch(tnHzing, aid leariiing a trade. — Second journey into Pennsyl- 
vania, Murytand, Virginia, and Aoiih Carolina. — Tliitd jourmy 
through part of li'csl and East Jersey. — Fourth journey through A'eiv 

York and Long I<iind, to J\~ew England 9.nd his fifth journey to the 

Eastern shore tf JMaryLaad, and the [oner Counties on Delaware. 

My esteemed friend Abraham Farrington, being about 
to rrjake a visit to friends on the eastern side of this pro- 
vince, and having no companion, hiO projjosed to me to go 
with him; and after a conference with some ehlerly friends, 
I agreed to go. We set out on the 5lii of ninth mo. 
1743; had an evening meeting at a tav rn in Bruns- 
wick, a town in wliich none of our society dwelt; liie 
room was full, and the people quiet. Thence to Amboy, 
and had an evening meeting in the court-house; to which 
came many people, amongst whom were several members 
of assembly, they being in town on the public affairs of the 
province. In both these meetings my ancient comj)anion 
was engaged to preach largely in the love of the gospel. 
Thence we went to Woodbridge, Raway, and Plainfield; 
and had six or seven meetings in places wheje friends' 
meetings are not usually held, chieHy attended by Presby- 
terians, and my beloved companion was frequently strength- 
ened to publish the word of life amongst them. As for 
me, I was often silent through the meetings; and when I 
spake, it was with nmch care, that I might speak ordy what 
truth opened. My mind was often tender, and I learned 
some profitable lessons. We were out about two weeks. 

Near this time, being on some outward business in which 
several families were concerned, and which was attended 
with difficulties, some things relating thereto not being 
clearly stated, nor rightly understood by all, theie arose 
some heat in the minds of the parlies, and one valuable 
friend got off his watch. I had a great regard for him, 
and felt a strong inclination, after matters were settled, to 
speak to him concerning his conduct in that case; but be- 



24 THEJOURNALOF 

ing a youth, and he far advanced in age and experience, 
my way appeared difficult; after some days deliberation, 
and inward seeking to the Loid for assistance, I was made 
subject; so that I expressed what lay upon me, in a way 
which became my youth and his years; and though it was 
a hard task to me, it was well taken, and 1 believe was 
useful to us both. 

Having now been several years with my employer, and 
he doing less in merchandize than heretofore, I was thought- 
ful about some other way of business; perceiving merchan- 
dize to be attended witli much cumber in tlie way of trad- 
ing in these parts. 

My mind thi'ough the power of liiilh, was in a good de- 
gree weaned from the desire of outward greatness, and I 
was learning to be content wiih real conveniences, that 
were not cosily; so that a way of life free from much en- 
tanglement, appeared best for me, though llie income might 
be small. I had several offers of business that appeared 
profitable, but I did not see my way clear to accept of 
them; believing they would be attended with more outward 
care and cumber than was required of me to engage in. I 
saw that an humble man, with the blessing of the Lord, 
migi.t live on a I'tile; and that where the heart was set on 
greatness, success in business did not satisfy the craving; 
but that conunonly with an increase of wealth, the desire 
of wealth increased. There was a care on my mind so to 
pass my time, that nothing might hinder me from the most 
steady attenticn to the voice of the true Shepherd. 

My eujployer, though now a retailer of goods, was by 
trade a tailor, and kept a servant ma!i at that business; and 
I began to think about learning the trade, expecting that if 
I should settle, I might, by this trade, and a little retailing 
of goods, get a livitig in a jdain way, without the load of 
great business. I mentioned it to my employer, and we 
soon agreed on teru)s; and when I had leisure from the 
affairs of merchandize, 1 worked with his man. ] believed 
the hand of providence pointed out this business for me; 
and I was taught to be content with it, though I felt at times 
a disposition that would have sought for sometiiing greater; 
but, through the revelation of Jesus Christ, I had seen the 



J H xN ^A' L M A N . 25 

happiness of liumility, and there was an earnest desire in 
me to enter deeply into it; at times this desire arose to a 
degree of fervent supph'cation, wherein my soul was so en- 
vironed with heavenly ligiit and consolation, that things 
were made easy to me which had been otherwise. 

After some time my employer's wife died; she was a vir- 
tuous woman, and generally beloved of her neighbors. 
Soon after this he left shopkeeping, and we parted. I 
then wrought at my trade, as a tailor; carefully attended 
meetings for worship and discipline; and found an enlarge- 
ment of gospel love in my mind, and therein a concern to 
visit friends in some of the back settlements of Pennsylva- 
nia and Virginia. Being thoughtful about a companion, I 
expressed it to my beloved friend, Isaac Andrews, who 
told me that he had drawings to the same places; and also 
to go through Maryland, Virginia, and Carolina. After a 
considerable time, and several conferences with him, I felt 
easy to accompany him throughout, if way opened for it. I 
opened the case in our monthly-meeting, and friends ex- 
pressing their unity therewith, we obtained certificates to 
travel as companions; he from Haddonfield, and I from 
Burlington. 

We left our province on the twelfth of third month, 1746, 
and had several meetings in the upper part of Chester 
county, and near Lancaster; in some of which the love of 
Christ prevailed, uniting us together in his service. We 
then crossed the river Susquehannah, and had several meet- 
ings in a new settlement, called the Red Lands. It is the 
poorer sort of people that commonly begin to improve re- 
mote deserts; with a small stock they have houses to build, 
lands to clear and fence, corn to raise, clothes to provide, 
and children to educate; so that friends who visit such may 
well sympathize with them in their hardships in the wilder- 
ness; and though the best entertainment that they can give, 
may seem coarse to some who are used to cities, or old 
settled places, it becomes the disciples of Christ to be there- 
with content. Our hearts were sometimes enlarged in the 
love of our heavenly Father amongst these people; and the 
sweet influence of his spirit supported us through some dif- 
ficulties: to Him be the praise. 
3 



26 T H E J U R N A L F 

We passed on to Manoquacy, Fairfax, Hopewell, and 
Shanando, and had meetings; some of which were comfort- 
able and edifying. From Shanando, we set off in the af- 
ternoon for the old settlements of friends in Virginia; the 
first night we, with our guide, lodged in the woods, our 
horses feeding near us; but he being poorly provided with 
a horse, and we young, and having good horses, were free 
the next day to part with him. In two days after, we 
reached our friend John Cheagle's, in Virginia. We took 
the meetings in our way through Virginia; were in some 
degree baptized into a feeling sense of the conditions 
of the people; and our exercise in general was more 
painful in these old settlements, than it had been 
amongst the back inhabitants; yet through the goodness of 
our heavenly Father, the well of living waters was nt times 
opened to our encouragement, and the refreshment of the 
sincere-hearted. We went on to Perqulmons, in jNorth 
Carolina; had several large meetings, and found some 
openness in those parts, and a hopeful appearance amongst 
the young people. Afterwards we turned again to Virgin- 
ia, and attended most of the meetings which we had not 
been at before, laboring amongst friends in the love of 
Jesus Christ, a? ability was given; thence went to the 
mountains, up .Tames' river to a new settlement, and had 
several meetings amongst the people, some of whom had 
lately joined in membership with our society. In our 
journeying to and fro, wejbund some honest-hearted friends, 
who appeared to be concerned for the cause of truth among 
a backsliding people. 

From Virginia, we crossed over the river Patomac, at 
Hoe's ferry, and made a general visit to the meetings of 
friends on the western shore of Maryland; and were at their 
quarterly meeting. We had some hard labor amongst 
them, endeavoring to discharge our duty honestly as way 
opened, in the love of truth. Thence taking sundry meet- 
ings in our ^vay, we passed towards home which, through 
the favor of Divine Providence, we reached the sixteenth 
of sixth month, 1746; and I may say, that through the as- 
sistance of the Holy Spirit, which mortifies selfish desires. 



J ti N ^V L M A f* . 2f 

my companion and I travelled in harmony, and parted in 
the nearness of true brotherly love. 

Two things were reniarkable to me in this journey; 
first, in regard to my entertainment; when I ate, drank, 
and lodged free-cost with people, who lived in ease on 
tlie hard labor of their slaves, I felt uneasy; and as my 
rnind was inward to the Lord, I found this uneasiness re- 
turn upon ine, at times, through the whole visit* Where 
the masters bore a good share of the burden, and lived fru- 
gally, so that their servants were well provided for, and 
their labor moderate, I felt more easy; but where they 
lived in a costly way, and laid heavy burdens on their 
slaves, my exercise was often great, and I frequently had 
conversation with them in private concerning it. Second- 
ly; this trade of importing slaves from their native country 
being much encouraged amongst them, and the white peo- 
ple and their children so generally living without much la- 
bor, was frequently the subject of my serious thoughts. I 
saw in these southern provinces so many vices and corrup- 
tions, increased by this trade, and this way of life, that it 
appeared to me as a dark gloominess hanging over the land; 
and though now" many willingly run into it, yet in future the 
consequence will be grievous to posterity. I express it as 
it hath appeared to me, not once, nor twice, but as a mat-^ 
ter fixed on ray mind. 

Soon after my return home, I felt an increasing concern 
for friends on our sea coast; and on the eighth of eighth 
month,. 1746, I left home with the unity of friends, and in 
company with my beloved friend and neighbor Peter An- 
drews, brother to my companion before-mentioned, and 
visited them in their meetings generally about Salem, Cape 
May, Great and Little Egg Harbor; we had meetings also 
at Barnagat, Manahockin, and Mane Squan, and so to the 
yearly meeting at Shrewsbury. Through the goodness of 
the Lord way was opened, and the strength of divine love 
was sometimes felt in our assemblies, to the comfort and 
help of those who were rightly concerned before Him. We 
were out twenty-two days, and rode, by computation, three 
hundred and forty miles. At Shrewsbury yearly meeting, 



28 THEJOURNALOF 

we met with our dear friends Michael Lightfoot and Abra- 
ham Farrington. whe had good service there. 

^ The winter following died my eldest sister Eliza- 
beth Woolman, jun., of the small pox, aged thirty-one 
years. 

Of late I found drawings in my mind to visit friends in 
New England, and having an opportunity of joining in com- 
pany with my beloved friend Peter Andrews, we obtained 
certificates from our monthly meeting, and set forward on 
the sixteenth of third month, 1747. We reached the 
yearly meeting at Long Island; at which were our friends 
Samuel Nottingham from England, John Griffith, Jane 
Hoskins, and Elizabeth Hudson from Pennsylvania, and 
Jacob Andrews from Chesterfield; several of whom were 
favored in their public exercise; and, through the goodness 
of the Lord, we had some edifying meetings. After this 
ray companion and I visited friends on Long Island; and 
through the mercies of God, we were helped in the vi'ork. 

Besides going to the settled meetings of friends, we 
were at a general meeting at Setawket, chiefly made up of 
other societies; we had also a meeting at Oyster Bay in a 
dwelling house, at which were many peoj)le; at the former 
there was not much said by way of testimony, but it was, 
I believe, a good meeting; at the latter, through the spring- 
ing up of living waters, it was a day to be thankfully re- 
membered. Having visited the island, we went over to 
the main, taking meetings in our way, to Oblong, Nine- 
partners, and New-Milford. In these back settlements, we 
met with several people who, through the immediate work- 
ings of the spirit of Christ on their minds, w'ere draw'n 
from the vanities of the world to an inward acquaintance 
with him. They were educated in the way of the Pres- 
byterians. A considerable number of the youth, members 
of that society, used often to spend their time together in 
merriment, but some of the principal young men of the 
company, being visited by the pow-erful workings of the 
spirit of Christ, and thereby led humbly to take up his 
cross, could no longer join in those vanities. As these stood 

* For an account of this interesting young person, see Appendix^ 



John w l m a n . 29 

steadfast to that inward convincement, they were made a 
blessing to some of their former companions; so that 
through the power of truth, several were brought into a 
close exercise concerning the eternal well-being of their 
souls. These young people continued for a time to fre- 
quent their public worship; and besides that, had meetings 
of their own; which meetings were a while allowed by 
their preacher, who sometimes met with them; but in time 
their judgment in matters of religion, disagreeingwith some 
of the articles of the Presbyterians, their meetings were 
disapproved by that society; and such of them as stood 
firm to their duty, as it was inwardly manifested, had many 
difficulties to go through. In awhile their meetings were 
dropped; some of them returned to the Presbyterians, and 
others joined to our religious society. 

I had conversation with some of the latter, to my help 
and edification; and believe several of them are acquainted 
with the nature of that worship, which is performed in 
spirit and in truth. Amos Powel, a friend from Long 
Island, accompanied me through Connecticut, which is 
chiefly inhabited by Presbyterians; who were generally ci- 
vil to us. After three days riding, we came amongst 
friends in the colony of Rhode Island, and visited them in 
and about Newport, Dartmouth, and generally in those 
parts; we then went to Boston, and proceeded eastward 
as far as Dover. Not far from thence, we met our friend 
Thomas Gawtbrop from England, who was then on a visit 
to these provinces. From Newport we sailed to Nantuck- 
et; were there nearly a week; and from thence came over 
to Dartmouth. Having finished our visit in these parts, 
we crossed the Sound from New London to Long Island; 
and taking some meetings on the island, proceeded towards 
home; which we reached the thirteenth of seventh month, 
1747, having rode about fifteen hundred miles, and sailed 
about one hundred and fifty. 

In this journey, I may say in general, we were some- 
times in much weakness, and labored under discourage- 
ments; and at other times, through the renewed manifesta- 
tions of divine love, we had seasons of refreshment, where- 
in the power of truth prevailed. We were taught, by re- 

3# 



30 THEJOURNALOF 

iicwed experience, to labor for an inward stillness; at no 
time to seek for words, but to live in the spirit of truth, 
and utter that to the people which truth opened in us. My 
beloved companion and I belonged both to one meeting, 
came forth in the ministry near the same time, and were in- 
wardly united in the work. He was about thirteen years 
older than I, bore the heaviest burden, and was an instru- 
ment of the greatest use. 

Finding a concern to visit friends in the lower counties 
of Delaware, and on the eastern shore of INlaryland, and 
having an opportunity to join with my well-beloved ancient 
friend John Sykes, we obtained certificates, and set off 
the seventh of eighth month, 1748, were at the meetings 
of friends in the lower counties, attended the yearly meet- 
ing at Little Creek, and made a visit to most of the meet- 
ings on the Eastern shore; and so home by the way of 
Nottingham. We were abroad about six weeks; and rode 
by computation, about five hundred and fifty miles. 

Our exercise at times was heavy; but through the good- 
ness of the Lord, we were often refreshed; and 1 may 
say by experience, '' He is a strong hold in the day of 
trouble." Though our society, in these parts, appeared 
to me to be in a declining condition; yet I believe the 
Lord hath a people amongst tl:em, who labor to serve him 
uprightly; but they have many difiiculties to encounter. 



CHAPTER III. 
1749.— 1756. 

His marriage. — The death of his father. — His journies into the up- 
per part of JVew Jersey, and afterwards into Pennsylvania. — Consider- 
ations on keeping slaves, and visits to the families of friends at several 
times and places. — .B.a epistle from the general meeting. — His journey to 
Long Island. — Considerations on trading, and on the use of spirituous 
liquors and costly apparel. — Letter to a friend. 

About this time believing it good for me to settle, and 
thinking seriously about a companion, my heart was turned 
to the Lord, with desires that he would give me wisdom to 
proceed therein agreeably to his will; and he was pleased 



J H N W L M A N . 31 

to give me a well-inclined damsel, Sarah Ellis; to whom I 
was married the eighteenth of eighth month 1749. 

In the fall of the year 1750 died my father, Samuel 
Woolman, of a fever, aged about sixty years. In his life- 
time he manifested much care for us his children, that in 
our yoQth we might learn to fear the Lord; and often en- 
deavored to imprint in our minds the true principles of vir- 
tue, and particularly to cherish in us a spirit of tenderness, 
not only towards poor people, but also towards all crea- 
tures of which we had the command. 

After my return from Carolina in 1746, I made some 
observations on keeping slaves, which sometime before his 
decease I showed to him; he perused the manuscript, pro- 
posed a few alterations, and appeared well satisfied that I 
found a concern on that account. In his last sickness, as 
I was watching with him one night, he being so far spent 
that there was no expectation of his recovery, though he 
had the perfect use of his understanding, he asked me con- 
cerning the manuscript, and whether I expected soon to 
proceed to take the advice of friends in publishing it? Af- 
ter some further conversation thereon, he said, " 1 have all 
along been deeply affected with the oppression of the poor 
negroes; and now, at last, my co:icern for them is as great 
as ever." 

By his direction I had written his will in a time of health, 
aod that night he desired me to read it to him, which I 
did; and he said it was agreeable to his mind. He then 
made mention of his end, which he believed was near; 
and signified that though he was sensible of many imper- 
fections in the course of his life, yet his experience of the 
power of truth, and of the love and goodness of God from 
time to time, even till now was such, that he had no doubt 
that on leaving this life, he should enter into one more 
happy. 

The next day, his sister Elizabeth came to see him, and 
told hini of the decease of their sister Anne, who died a 
few days before; he then said, " I reckon sister Anne was 
free to leave this world?" Elizabeth said she was. He 
then said, " I also am free to leave it;" and being in great 



32 f rr E J ci L' K N A L or 

weakness of body said, '' I hope I shall shortly go to rest." 
He continued in a weighty frame of mind, and was sensible 
till near the last. 

Second of ninth month, 1751. Feeling drawings in my 
mind to visit friends at the Great Meadows, in the upper 
part of West Jersey, with the unity of our monthly meet- 
ing, 1 went there, and had some searching laborious exer- 
cise amongst friends in those parts, and found inward peace 
therein. 

Ninth month, 1753. In company with my well-esteem- 
ed friend John Sykes, and with the unity of friends, I 
travelled about two weeks visiting friends in Buck's County. 
We labored in the love of the gospel, according to the 
measure received; and through the mercies of him, who is 
strength to the poor who trust in Him, we found satisfac- 
tion in our visit. In the next winter, way opening to visit 
friends' families within ihe compass of our monthly meeting, 
partly by the labors of two friends from Pennsylvania, I 
joined in some part of the work, having had a desire some 
time that it might go forward amongst us. 

About this time, a person at some distance lying sick, 
his brother came to me to write his will. I knew he had 
slaves; and, asking his brother, was told he intended to 
leave them as slaves to his children. As writing is a pro- 
fitable employ, and as offending sober people was disagree- 
able to my inclination, I was straitened in -my mind; but 
as I looked to the Lord, he inclined my heart to his testi- 
mony. I told the man, that I believed the practice of con- 
tinuing slavery to this people was not right, and that I had 
a scruple in my mind against doing writings of that kind; 
that though many in our society kept them as slaves, still I 
was not easy to be concerned in it, and desired to be ex- 
cused from going to write the will. I spake to him in the 
fear of the Lord; and he made no reply to what I said, 
but went away; he also had some concerns in the practice; 
and I thought he was displeased with me. In this case 
I had fresh confirmation, that acting contrary to present 
outward interest, from a motive of divine love, and in re- 
gard to truth and righteousness, and thereby incurring the 



JOHN U^ L M A N . 33 

resentments of people, opens the way to a treasure better 
than silver, and to a friendship exceeding the friendship of 
men. 

The manuscript before-mentioned having laid by me se- 
veral years, the publication of it rested weightily upon me; 
and this year I offered it to the revisal of my friends, who 
having examined, and made some small alterations in it, 
directed a number of copies thereof to be published and 
dispersed amongst members of our society. 

In the year 1754, I found my mind drawn to join in a 
visit to friends' families belonsfing; to Chesterfield monthlv 
meeting; and having the approbation of cur own, I went 
to their monthly miCeting in order to confer with friends, 
and see if way opened for it. I had conference with some 
of their members, the proposal having been opened before 
in their meeting, and one friend agreed to join with me as 
a companion for a beginning; but when meeting was ended, 
I felt great distress of mind, and doubted what vvay to take, 
or whether to go home and wait for greater clearness. I 
kept my distress secret, and going with a friend to his 
house, my desires were to the great Shepherd for his 
heavenly instruction. In the morning I felt easy to pro- 
ceed on the visit, though very low in my mind. As mine 
eye was turned to the Lord, waiting in families in deep 
reverence before Him, He was pleased graciously to af- 
ford help; so that we had many comfortable opportunities, 
and it appeared as a fresh visitation to some young people. 
I spent several weeks this winter in the service; part of 
which time was employed near home. And again in the 
following winter I was several weeks in the same service; 
some part of the time at Shrewsbury, in company with my 
beloved friend, John Sykes; and I have cause humbly to 
acknowledge, that through the goodness of the Lord, our 
hearts were at times enlarged in his love; and strength was 
given to go through the trials which, in the course of our 
visit, attended us. 

From a disagreement betw^een the powers of England 
and France, it was now a time of trouble on this continent; 
and an epistle to friends w^ent forth from our general 
spring meeting, which I thought good to give a place in 
this journal. 



S4 T ii r. J t' R N A L or 



An Epislle from our general spring meeting of ministers and elders 
for Pennsylvania end A^'cw Jersey, held ut Philadelphia, from tht 
twenty-ninth of the third months to the first of the fourth month, inclu- 
sive, 1755.- 

To Friends on the Conlineiit of x^merica. 

Dear Friends, 

In an liiinible sense of divine goodness, and the gracious 
continuation of God's love to bis people, we lendei'ly sa- 
lute you; and are at this time therein engaged in mind, that 
all of us who [)rofess the truth, as held forth and published 
by our worthy piedecessors in this lalter age of tiie woild, 
may keep near to that life wliich is tlie light of men, and 
be strengthened to hold fast the profession of our faith 
without wavering, that our trust may not be in man, but in 
the Lord alone, who ruleth in the army of heaven, and in 
the kingdonis of men, before whom the earth is " as the 
dust of the balance, and her inhabitants as grasshoppers." 
Isa. xl. 22. 

Being convinced that the gracious design of the Almighty 
in sending his Son into tlie world, was to re[)air the breach 
njade by disobedience, to finish sin and transgression, that 
his kingdom might come, and his will be done on earth as 
it is in heaven, we have found it to be our duty to cease 
from those national contests which are productive of misery 
and bloodshed, and submit our cause to Him, the Most 
High, whose tender love to his children exceeds the most 
warm affections of natural parents, and who hath promised 
to his seed throughout the earth, as to one individual, " I 
will never leave thee, nor forsake thee." Heb. xiii. 5. 
And we, through the gracious dealings of the Lord our 
God, have had experience of that work which is carried 
on, not by earthly might, nor by power, but by my spirit, 
saith the Lord of Hosts." Zech. iv. G. By which op- 
eration, that spiritual kingdom is set up, which is to sub- 
due and break in pieces all kingdoms that oppose it, and 
shall stand for ever. In a deep sense thereof, and of the 
safety, stability, and peace that are in it, we are desirous 
that all who profess the truth, may be inwardly [acquainted 



J il ?T W L M A N . 35 

will] it, and thereby be qualified to conduct ourselves in all 
parts of our life, as becomes our peaceable profession: and 
we trust, as there is a faithful continuance to depend wholly 
upon the almighty arm, from one generation to another, the 
peaceable kingdom will gradually be extended " from sea 
to sea, and from the river to the ends of the earth." Zecb. 
ix. 10. to the completion of those prophecies already be- 
gun, that " nation shall not lift up a sword against nation, 
nor learn war any more." Isa. ii. 4. iViicah iv. 3. 

Andj dearly beloved friends, seeing that we have these 
promises, and believe that God is beginning to fulfill them, let 
us constantly endeavor to have our minds sufficiently disen- 
tangled from the surfeiting cares of this life, and redeemed 
from the love of the world, that no earthly possessions nor 
enjoyments may bias our judgments, or turn us from that 
resignation and entire trust in God, to which his blesssing 
is most surely annexed; then may we say, "Our redeem- 
er is nu'ghty, he will plead our cause for us." Jer. 1. 34. 
And if, for the further promoting of his most gracious pur- 
poses in the earth, he should give us to taste of that bitter 
cup of which his faithful ones have often partaken; O that 
we might be rightly prepared to receive it! 

And now, dear friends, with respect to the commo- 
tions and stirrings of the powers of the earth at this time 
near us, we are desirous that none of us may be moved 
thereat; but repose ourselves in the munition of that rock 
which all these shakings shall not move, even in the 
knowledge and feeling of the eternal power of God, keep- 
ing us subjectly given up to his heavenly will, and feeling it 
daily to niortify that wdiich remains in any of us which is 
of this world; for the worldly part in any, is the changeable 
part, and that is up and down, full and empty, joyful and 
sorrowful, as things go well or ill in this world. For as the 
truth is but one, and many are made partakers of its spirit, 
so the world is but one, and many are made partakers of 
the spirit of it; and so many as do partake of it, so many 
will be straightened and perplexed with it. But they who 
are single to the truth, waiting daily to feel the life and vir- 
tue of it in their hearts, shall rejoice in the midst of adver- 
sity, and have to experience with the prophet, that, '' al- 



S6 T II E J U R N A L F 

though the fig-tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be 
in the vines; the labor of the olive shall fail, and the fields 
shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the 
fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls; yet will they 
rejoice in the Lord, and joy in the God of their salvation." 
Hab. iii. 17, 18. 

If, contrary to this, we profess the truth, and not living 
under the poAver and influence of it, are producing fruits 
disagreeable to the purity thereof, and trust to the strength 
of man to support ourselves, our confidence therein will be 
vain. For he who removed the hedge from his vineyard, 
and gave it to be trodden under foot, by reason of the wild 
grapes it produced. (Isa. v. 6.) remains unchangeable; and 
if, lor the chastisement of wickedness, and the further pro- 
moting of his own glory, he doth arise, even to shake ter- 
ribly the earth, who then may oppose him, and prosper! 

We remain, in the love of the gospel, ycur friends and 
brethren. 

Signed by fourteen friends. 

Scrupling to do writings relative to keeping slaves, has 
been a means of sundry small trials to me, in which I have 
so evidently felt my own will set aside, that I think it good 
to mention a few of them. Tradesmen and retailers of 
goods, who depend on their business for a living, are na- 
turally inclined to keep the good will of their customers; 
nor is it a pleasant thing for young men to be under any 
necessity to question the judgment or honesty of elderly 
men, and more especially of such as have a fair reputation. 
Deep-rooted customs, though wrong, are not easily alter- 
ed; but it is the duty of all to be firm in that which they 
certainly know is right for them. A charitable, benevolent 
man, well acquainted with a negro, may I believe, under 
some circumstances, keep him in his family as a servant, 
on no other motives than the negroe'sgood; but man, as man, 
knows not what shall be afler him, nor hath he any assur- 
ance that his children will attain to thai perfection in wis- 
dom and goodness, necessary rightly to exercise such pow- 
er; hence it is clear to me, that I ought not to be the 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 37 

scribe where wills are drawn, in which some children are 
made ales masters over others during life. 

About this time, an ancient man of good esteem in the 
neighborhood, came to my liouse to get his will written. 
He had young negroes; and I asked him privately how he 
purposed to dispose of them. He told me; I then said, I 
cannot write thy will without breaking my own peace; and 
respectfully gave him my reasons for it. He signified that 
he had a choice that I should have written it; but as 1 could 
not, consistently with ray conscience, he did not desire it; 
and so he got it written by some other [)erson. A few 
years after, there being great alterations in his family, he 
came again to get me to write his will. His negroes were 
yet young; and his son, to whom he intended to give them, 
was, since he first spoke to me, from a libertine, become 
a sober young man; and he supposed that I would have 
been free on that account to write it. We had much 
friendly talk on the subject, and then deferred it. A few 
days after he came again, and directed their freedom; and 
f then wrote his will. 

Near the lime that the last mentioned friend first spoke 
to me, a neighbor received a bad bruise in his body, and 
sent for me to bleed him; which having done, he desired 
me to write his will. I took notes; and amongst other 
things, he told me to which of his children he gave his 
young negro. 1 considered the pain and distress he was in, 
and knew not how it would end; so I wrote his will, save 
only that part concerning his slave, and carrying it to his 
bedside, read it to him. I then told him in a friendly way, 
that I could not write any instruments by which my fellow- 
creatures were made slaves, without bringing trouble on my 
own mind. I let him know that I charged nothing for 
what 1 had done, and desired to be excused from doing the 
other part in the way he proposed. We then had a serious 
conference on the subject; at length, he agreeing to set 
her free, I finished his will. 

Having found drawings in m}^ mind to visit friends on 
Long Island, after obtaining a certificate from our monthly 
meeting, I set off twelfth of fifth month, 1756. When I 
reached the island, I lodged the first night at the house of 



83 THEJOURNALOF 

my clear friend Richard H .llelt. The npxt day, being; the 
first ol the week, I was at ihe meeting in New Town; in 
\vi)ich we experienced the renewed manifesiations of the 
love of Jesus Christ, to the comfort of ihe honesl-liearted. 
] went that night to FLishing; and the next day, I and my 
beloved friend Matt/ ew Franklin, crossed ihe ferry at 
While Slone; were at three meetings on the main, and ihen 
retnrned to the ishmd; where I spent ihe remainder of the 
week in visiting meetings. 'I'he Lord I heheve hath a 
people in those parts, who are honestly inclined lo serve 
ijim; hut many, i fear, are too nnich clogged with the 
things of this life, and do not come foivvarcl bearing the 
cross in such faiihfuli>ess as He calls for. 

My mind wasdeejrjy engaged in this visit, botli in public 
and |>rivale; and, at several places wheie I was, on ob- 
serving that ihey had slaves, I fonnd myself under a ne- 
cessity, in a friendly way, to tabor with them on that sub- 
ject; expressing as way opened, the inconsistency of that 
practice with the purity of the Christian religion, and the 
ill effects of it manifested amongst us. 

The latter end of the w^ek their yearly meeting began; 
at which were our friends John Scarborough, Jane Hos- 
kins, and Susannah BiOvvn, from Pennsylvania. The pub- 
lic meetings were large, and measurahly favored with divine 
goodness, 'i'he exercise of my mind, at this meeting, was 
chiefly on account of those who were considered as the 
foremost rank in the society; and in a meeting of ministers 
and elilers, way opened for me to express in some measure 
what lay upon me; and when friends were met for transact- 
ing the aft'airs of the church, having sat a whilo silent, I 
felt a weight on my mind, and stood up; and through the 
gracious regard of our heavenly Father, strength was given 
fully to clear myself of a burden, which for some days had 
been increasing upon me. 

Through the lunnbling disj)ensalions of Divine Provi- 
dence, men are sotneiimes filled for his service. The mes- 
sages of ihe prophet Jeremiah were so disagreeable to the 
peoj)le, and so adverse to the S|)iril they lived in, that he 
became the object of their reproach; and in the weakness 
of nature, he thought of desisting from his prophetic office; 



J H N W O L M A N , 39 

but saith be, *' His word uas in my heart as a burnine; fire 
shut up in my Uo:^es; and I was weary with Ibrbearing, 
and could not stay," I saw at this time, thai it" I was 
honest in declaring that which triitli opened in me, I could 
not please ali men; and I labored to be content in the way 
of my duty, however disagreeable to my own inclination. 
After this I went om^ward, taking Woodbridge and Plain- 
Seld in my way; in both which meetings, tiie pure influence 
of divine love was manifested; in an bumbling sense where- 
of I went home, I had been out about twenty-four days, 
and rode about three hundred and sixteen miles. 

WhiJ.e I was out on tliis journey-, my heart was much 
affected with a seuse of the stste of the ohnrcbes in our 
southern provinces; and believing the Lord was calling me 
to some further kbor a«iongst them, I was bowed in rev- 
erence bfffore Hi ill, with fervent desires tliat I miglit find 
strength to resign myself to his heavenly will, 

Untii this year, 1756, I continued to retail goods, be- 
sides following my trade as a tailor; about which lime I 
grew uneasy on account of my business growing too cum* 
bersome. I had begun with selling trimtnings for garments, 
and from thence proceeded to sell cloths and linens; and 
at length, having got a considerable shcjp of gootis, my 
trade increased every year, and the way to large business 
appeared o])en; but L felt a stop in uiy mind. 

Througli the mercies of the Almighty, [ had, in a good 
degree, learned to be content with u plain w<iy of living. 
I had but a snail family; and on serious consideration, 
believed truth did not require me to engage much in cum- 
bering affairs, \t had been my genei-al practice to buy 
and sell things really iisefuL Things that served chiefly 
to please the vain mind in people, I was not easy to trade 
in; seldom did it; and whenever I did, I found it weaken 
me as a Ghi'istian. 

The increase of business became my burden; for though 
my natural inclination was toward merchandize, yet 1 be- 
lieved truth required me to live more free frotu outward 
cumbers; and there was now a strife in mv mind l)etweeii 
the two. In this exercise my prayers were put up to the 
Lord, who graciously heard me, and gave iv.e a heart re- 



40 THEJOtJRNALOF 

signed to his holy will. Then I lessened my outward 
business; and as 1 had opportunity, told my customers of 
my intentions, that they might consider what shop to turn 
to; and in a while I wholly laid down merchandize, and 
followed my trade as a tailor by myself, having no appren- 
tice. I also had a nursery of apple-trees; in which 1 em- 
ployed some of my time in hoeing, grafting, trimming, and 
inoculating. In merchandize it is the custom, where I 
lived, to sell chiefly on credit, and poor peo[)le often get 
in debt; when payment is expected, not having wherevviib 
to pay, their creditors often sue for it at law. Having 
frequently observed occurrences of this kind, I found it 
good for me to advise poor j)eople to take such goods as 
were most useful, and not cosily. 

In the time of trading, I bad an opportunity of seeing 
that the too liberal use of spirituous licpiors, an4 tlie cus- 
tom of wearing too costly apparel, led some people into 
great inconveniences; and that these two things appear to be 
often connected with each other. By not attending to that 
use of things, which is consistent with universal righteous- 
ness, there is an increase of labor which extends beyond 
what our heavenly Father intends for us. And by great 
labor, and often by mu?,b sweating, there is even among 
such as are not drurtkards, a craving of liquors to revive the 
spirits; that partly by the luxurious drinking of some, and 
partly by the drinking of others, (led to it through immod- 
erate labor) very great quantities of rum are every year ex- 
pended in our colonies; the greater part of which we should 
have no need of, did we steadily attend to pure wisdom. 

When men take pleasure in feeling their minds elevat- 
ed with strong drink, and so indulge their appetite as to 
disorder their understandings, neglect their duty as mem- 
bers of a family or civil society, and cast off all reg;ard to 
religion, their case is much to be pitied. And where those 
whose lives are for the most part regular, and whose ex- 
amples have a strong influence on the minds of others, ad- 
here to some customs which powerfully draw to the use of 
more strong liquor than pure wisdom allows; it hinders the 
spreading of the spirit of meekness, and strengthens the 
hands of the more excessive drinkers. This is a case to be 
lamented. 



J (5 M r^ W d e L M A ^ J 41 

Every degree of luxury hath some connexion with evilj 
and if those who profess to be disciples of Christ, and are 
looked upon as leaders of the people, have that mind in 
them Wliich was also in Christ, and so stand separate from 
every wrong way^ it is a means of helj) to the weaker? As 
I have sometimes been njuch spent in the heat, and have 
takeii Sjjirits to jevive me^ I have found by experience^ 
that in such circumstances the mind is not so calm, nor so 
filly disposed lor divine tnediiaiion^ as when all such ex*^ 
tremes are avoided; I have felt an increasing care to at* 
tend to that holy Spirit ^Vhich sets fight bolmds to our de* 
sires; and leads those who faithfully Ibllow it, to a|)piy ail 
the gifts of Divine Providence to (he purposes for which 
they Were intendeds Did those who iiiive tlie care of gre'at 
estates^ attend with singleness of heart to this heavenly In* 
Structor^ which so opens and enlarges the mind^ as to cause 
men to love their neighbors as themselves, they would have 
wisdom given them to manage their concerns, witlibut em^ 
ploying some people in {)roviding the luxuries of life^ or 
others in lahoring too hard; hut for want of steadily re* 
garding this j rinci|)le of divine love, n selfish spirit takes 
place in the minds of people^ which is attended with dark* 
tiess, and manifold Confusions in the worlds 

Though trading in things useful is art hotiest employ; yet 
through the great iiumber of superfluities which are bought 
and soldi arid ilirough the corruption of the times^ they 
who apply to mefrbimdize for a livings have great need to 
be well experienced in that precept which the prophet Je^ 
temiah laid down for his scribe; '' Seekest thiii great 
things for thyself? seek them riot*" 

In the winter this year^ 1 W&s engfiged with friends in 
visiting families; and through the goodness of the Lor !< 
We often limes experienced bis heart-tendering presefl;d 
amongst us* 



«i Copy of a Letter wtitteii to a friend. 

** In this thy late afflictiori 1 have fouiid a deep fellow 
4^ 



42 THE JOURNAL OF 

feeling with thee; and have had a secret hope throughout; 
that it might please the Father of mercies to raise thee up, 
and sanctify thy troubles to thee; that thou being more fully 
acquair)ted with that way which the world esteems foolish, 
mayst feel the clothing of divine fortitude, and be strength- 
ed to resist that spirit, which leads from the simplicity of 
the everlasting truth. 

We may see ourselves crippled and halting, and from a 
strong bias to things pleasant and easy, find an impossibility 
to advance forward; but things impossible with men are 
possible with God; and our wills being made subject to his^ 
all temptations are surmountable. 

This work of subjecting the will, is compared to 
the mineral in the furnace; which, through fervent heatj 
is reduced from its first principle; " He refines them as 
silver is refined — he shall sit as a refiner, and purifier of 
silver." By these comparisons, we are instructed in the 
necessity of the melting operation of the hand of God 
upon us, to prepare our hearts truly to adore Him, and 
manifest that adoration, by inwardly turning away from 
that s[)irit, in all its workings, which is not of Him. To 
forwnrd this work, the all- wise God is sometimes pleased, 
through outward distress, to bring us near the gates of 
death; that life being painful and afflicting, and the 
prospect of eternity open before us, all earthly bonds may 
be loosened, and the mind prepared for that deep and sa- 
cred instruction, which otherwise would not be received. 
If kind parents love their children, and delight in their 
happiness, then he who is perfect goodness, in sending 
abroad mortal contagions, doth assuredly direct their use — 
Are the righteous removed by it.'' their change is happy. 
Are the wicked taken away in their wickedness? the Al- 
mighty is clear. Do we pass through with anguish and 
great bitterness, and yet recover? He intends that we 
should be purged from dross, and our ear opened to disci- 
pline. 

And now, as thou art again restored, after thy sore af- 
fliction and doubts of recovery, forget not Him who hath 
helped thee; hut in humble gratitude hold fast his instruc- 
tions, and thereby sfiun those bye-paths which lead from 



JOHN WOOLMAN. 4 3 

the firm foundation. I am sensible of that variety of com- 
pany, to which one in thy business must be exposed; 1 
have painfully fell tlie force of conversation proceeding from 
men deeply rooted in an earthly mind, and can sympathize 
with others in such conflicts, because much weakness still 
attends me. 

1 find that to be a fool as to worldly wisdom, and to com- 
mit my cause to God, not fearing to offend men, who take 
offence at the simplicity of truth, is the only way to re- 
main unmoved at the sentiments of others. 

The fear of man brings a snare. By halting in our du- 
ty, and giving back in the time of trial, our hands grow 
weaker, our spirits get mingled with the people, our ears 
grow dull as to hearing the language of the true Shepherd; 
so that when we look at the way of the righteous, it seems 
as though itvvas not for us to follow them. 

A love clothes my mind while I write, which is superior 
10 all expression; and I find my heart open to encourage 
to a holy emulation, to advance forward in Christian firm- 
ness. Deep humility is a strong bulwark; and as we enter 
into it, we find safety and true exaltation. The foolishness 
of God is wiser than man, and the weakness of God is 
stronger than man. Being unclothed of our own wisdom, 
and knov.'ing the abasement of the creature, we find that 
power to arise which gives health and vigor to us." 



CHAPTER IV. 

1757—1758. 

Visit to the families of friends at Burlington — Journey to Pennsylva^ 
nia, Maryland, Virginia, and JVorih Carolina — Considerations on the 
state of friends there; and the exercise he was under in travelling among 
those so generally concerned, in keeping slaves; with some observations on 
this subject. — Epistle to friends at JVew Garden and Crane Creek. — - 
Thoughts on the neglect of a religious care in the education of the ne- 
groes. 

Thirteenth fifth month, 1757. Being in good healthj 
and abroad with friends visiting families, T lodged at a 
friend's house in Burlington. Going to bed about the time 



44 THEJOURNALOf 

usual with me, I awoke in the night, and my medhationS} 
as I lay, were on the goodness and mercy of {he Lord J 
in a sense whereof my heart was contrited. After this I 
Went to sleep again; in a short time I awoke^ it was yet 
dark, and no appearance of day or moonshine; and as 1 
opened mine eyes, I saw a light in my chamber, at the ap- 
parent distance of five feet, about nine inches In diameter, 
of a clear easy brightness, and near its centre the most ra- 
diant. As 1 lay slill looking upon it without any surprise, 
words were spoken to my inward ear, which filled my 
whole inward man. They Were not the effect of thought, 
nor any conchision in relation to the appearance; but as 
the language of the Holy One, spoken in my mind. The 
words were, Certain Evidence or Divine Truth* 
They were again repealed exactly in the same manner, and 
then the light disappeared. 

Feeling the exercise in relation to a visit to the South- 
ern Provinces to increase upon me, I acquainted our 
monthly meeting therewith, and obtained their certificate. 
Expecting to go alone, one of my brothers who lived in 
Philadelphia, having gome business in Norlh Carolina, pro- 
posed going with me part of the way; but as he had a 
view of some outward affairs, to acce[)t of h'nn as a com- 
panion was some difficulty with me, whereupon I had con- 
versation with hifn at sundry times. At length feeling ea- 
sy in my mind, I had conversation with several elderly 
friends of Philadelphia on the subject; and he obiaining a 
certificate suitable to the occasion, we set ofJ in the fifth 
month, 1757. Coming to Nottingham week-day meeting, 
we lodged at John Cliarchman's, where 1 met with oar 
friend Benjamin Buffington, from New England, who was 
returning from a visit to the Southern Provinces. Thencef 
we crossed the river Susquehannah, and lodged at Wil' 
liam Cox\s in Maryland/ 

Soon after I entered this province, a deep and painful 
exercise came upon me, which I often had some feeling, 
of, since my mind was drawn toward these parts, and witb 
ivhich 1 had acquainted my brother before We agreed to 
join as companions. A» the peof)le in this and the South- 
ern Provinces live much on the labor of slaves, many o( 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 45 

whom are used hardly, my concern was that I might at- 
tend with singleness of heart to the voice of the true Shep- 
herd, and be so supported as to remain unmoved at the 
faces of men. 

As it is common for friends on such a visit to have enter- 
tainment free of cost, a difficulty arose in my rnind with 
respect to saving my money by kindness received, from 
what appeared to me to be the gain of oppression. Re- 
ceiving a gift, considered as a gift, brings the receiver un- 
der obligations to the benefactor, and has a natural tenden- 
cy to draw the obliged into a party with the giver. To 
prevent difficulties of this kind, and to preserve the minds 
of judges from any bias, was that divine prohibition: '^ Thou 
shalt not receive any gift; for a gift blindelh the wise, and 
perverteth the words of the righteous." Exod. xxiii. 8. 
As the disciples were sent forth without any provision for 
their journey, and our Lord said the workman is worthy 
of his meat, their labor in the gospel was considered as a 
reward for their entertainment, and therefore not received 
as a gift; yet, in regard to my present journey, I could not 
see my way clear in that respect. The difference appear- 
ed thus: the entertainment the disciples met with, was 
from them whose hearts God had opened to receive them, 
from a love to them and the truth they published; but we 
considered as members of the same religious society, look 
upon it as a piece of civility to receive each other in such 
visits; and such reception, at times, is partly in regard to 
reputation, and not from an inward unity of heart and spir- 
it. Conduct is more convincing than language; and where 
people, by their actions, manifest that the slave-trade is 
not so disagreeable to their principles but that it may be 
encouraged, there is not a sound uniting with some friends 
who visit them. 

The prospect of so weighty a work, and of being so 
distinguished from many whom I esteemed before my- 
self, brought me very low; and such were the con- 
flicts of my soul, that I had a near sympathy with the 
prophet, in the time of his weakness, when he said, " If 
thou deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, if 1 have 
found favor in thy sight." Num. xi. 15. But I soon saw 



46 THEJOURNALOP 

that this proceeded from the want of a full resignation to 
the divine \\\]\. Many were the afflictions which at- 
tended me; and in great abasement, with many tears, my 
cries were to the Almighty for his gracious and fatherly as- 
sistance; and after a time of deep trial, I was favored to 
understand the state mentioned by the psalmist, more clear- 
ly than ever I had done before; to wit; '^ IMy soul is even 
as a weaned child." Psalm cxxxi. 2. Being thus helped 
to sink down into resignation, I felt a deliverance from that 
tempest in which I had been sorely exercised, and in calm- 
ness of mind went forward, trusting that the Lord Jesus 
Christ, as I faitlifully attended to him, would be a counsel- 
lor to me in all difficulties; and that by his strength Ishculd 
be enabled, even to leave money with the members of so- 
ciety where I had entertainment, when I found that omit- 
ting it, would obstruct that work to which I believed he 
had called me. As I copy this after my return, I may 
here add, that oftentimes*! did so, under a sense of duty. 
The way in which T did it was thus; when I expected soon 
to leave a friend's house where I had entertainment, if I 
believed that I should not keep clear from the gain of op- 
pression vviihout leaving money, I spoke to one of the heads 
of the family privately, and desired them to accept of 
those pieces of silver, and give tljcm to such of their ne- 
groes as they believed would make tlie best use of them: 
and at other times, I gave them to the negroes myself, as 
the way looked clearest to me. Before I came out, I had 
provided a large number of small pieces for this purpose; 
and thus ofiering xhein to some wl)o appeared to be weal- 
thy people, was a trial both to me and them. But the fear 
of the Lord so covered meat times, that my way was made 
easier tlian I expected; and few, if any, manifested any re- 
sentmeiit at the offer, and most of them, after some con- 
versation, accepted of them. 

Ninth of fifth month. A friend at whose house we 
breakfasted setting us a little on our way, I had conversa- 
tion wit!) him, in the fear of the Lord, concerning bis slaves; 
in which wy heart was tender; 1 used much plainness 
of speech with him, and he appeared to take it kindly. 
We pursued our journey without appointing meetings, be- 



JOHN IV OOL MAN. 47 

ing pressed in my mind to be at the yearly meeting in Vir- 
ginia. In my travelling on the road, I often felt a cry rise 
Jrom the centre of my mind, thus; " O Lord, I am a 
stranger on the earth, hide not thy face from me." On 
the eleventh, we crossed the rivers Patovvmack and Rap- 
ahannock, and lodged at Port Royal. On the way we had 
the company of a colonel of the militia, who apj)eared to 
be a thouglilful man. I look occasion to remark on the 
difference in general betwixt a people used to labor mod- 
erately for their living, training up their children in frugality 
and business, and those wlo live on the labor of slaves; 
the former, in my view, being the most happy life. He 
concurred in the remark, and meniioned the trouble arising 
from the untoward, slothful disposition of the negroes; ad- 
ding, that one of our laborers would do as much in a day 
as two of their slaves. 1 replied, tliat free men, whose 
minds were properly on tljeir business, foimd a salisfaction 
in improving, cuhivuting, and providing for their families; 
but negroes, laboring to support others who claim them as 
their property, and expecting nothing but slavery during 
life, had not the like inducement to be industrious. 

After some furdier conversation I said, that men hav- 
ing power, too often misapplied it; ihat though we made 
slaves of the negroes, and the Turks made slaves of the 
Christians, I believed tlial liberty was the natural right of 
all men equally. This he did not deny; but said, the 
lives of the negroes were so wretched in their own coun- 
try, that many of them lived belter here than there. I 
replied, there is great odds in regard lo us, on what jirin- 
ciple we act; and so the conversation on that subject 
ended. I may here add, lliat another j)erson, some time 
afterwards, mentioned the wretchedness of the negroes, oc- 
casioned by their intestine wars, as an argument in favor of 
our fetching them away for slaves. To which I replied, 
if compassion for the Afiicans, on account of their do- 
mestic troubles, was the real motive of our j)urchasing them, 
that spirit of tenderness being attended to, would incite us 
to use them kindly; that as strangers brought out of af- 
fliction, their lives might be happy among us. And as 
they are human creatures, whose souls are as precious as 



48 THEJOURNALOF 

ours, and who may receive the same help and comfort from 
llie holy scriptures as we do, we could not omit suitable 
endeavors to instruct them therein; but that while we mani- 
fest by our conduct, that our views in purchasing them are 
to advance ourselves; and while our buying captives taken 
in war, animates those parties to push on the war, and in- 
crease desolation amongst them; to say they live unhappy 
in Africa, is far from being an argument in our favor. J 
further said, Hie present circumstances of these provinces 
to me appear difficult; the slaves look like a burdensome 
stone to such as burden themselves with them; and that if 
the white people retain u resolution to prefer tlieir outward 
prospects of gain to all other considerations, and do not 
act conscientiously toward them as fellow-creatures, I be- 
lieve that burden will grow heavier and heavier, until times 
change in a way disagreeable to us. The person appeared 
very serious; and owned, that in considering their condi- 
tion, and the manrier of their treatment in these provinces, 
he had some times thought it might be just in the Almigh- 
ty so to order it. 

Hiiving travelled through Maryland, we came amongst 
friends at Cedar Creek in Virginia, on the twelfth; and the 
next day rode, in company with several friends, a day's 
journey to Camp Creek. As I was riding along in the 
mornitig, my mind was deeply affected in a sense I had of 
the want of divine aid to support me, in the various difficul- 
ties which attended me; and in uncommon distress of mind, 
I cried in secret to the Most High. " O Lord be mer- 
ciful, I beseech thee, to thy poor afflicted creature." Af- 
ter some lime, I felt inward relief; and soon after, a 
friend in company began to talk in support of the slave- 
trade, and said, the negroes were understood to be the off- 
spring of Cain, their blackness being the mark which God 
set upon him, after he murdered Abel his brother; that it 
was the design of Providence they should be slaves, as a 
condition (roper to the race of so wicked a man as Cain 
was. Then another spake in support of what had been 
said. To all which 1 replied in substance as follows; that 
Noah and his family were all who survived the flood, ac- 
cording to scripture; and as Noah was of Seth's race, the 



J II N IV L M A N . 49 

family of Cain was wholly destroyed. One of them said, 
that after the flood Ham went to the Land of Nod and took 
a wife; that Nod was a land far distant, inhabited hy Cain's 
race, and that the flood did not reach it; and as Ham was 
sentenced to be a servant of servants to his brethren, these 
two families being thus joined, were undoubtedly fit only 
for slaves. I replied, the flood was a judgment upon the 
world for their abominations; and it was granted that Cain's 
stock was the most wicked, arid therefore unreasonable to 
suppose that they were spared. As to Ham's going to 
the land of Nod for a wife, no tin^e being fixed. Nod might 
be inhabited by some of Noah's family, before Ham mar- 
ried a second time: moreover the text saith, ^' That all 
flesh died that moved upon the earth." Gen. vii. 21. I 
further reminded them how the prophets repeatedly de- 
clare, " that the son siiall not suffer for the iniquity of 
the father: but every one be answerable for his own 
sins." I was troubled to perceive the darkness of their 
imaginations; and in some pressure of spirit said, the love 
of ease and gain are the motives in general of keeping 
slaves, and men are wont to take hold of weak arguments 
to support a cause which is unreasonable. I have no in- 
terest on eiiher side, save only the interest which I desire 
to have in the truth. I believe liberty is their right, and as 
I see they are not only deprived of it, but treated in other 
respects with inhumanity in many places, I believe He, 
who is a refuge for the oppressed, will, in his own time, 
plead their cause; and happy will it be for such as walk in 
uprightness before Him. And thus our conversation end- 
ed. 

Fourteenth of fifth month, I was this day at Camp 
Creek monthly-meeting, and then rode to the mountains up 
James' River, and had a meeting at a friend's house; in 
both which I felt sorrow of heart, and my tears were 
poured out before the Lord, who w^as pleased to afford ^ 
degree of strength, by which way vi^as opened to clear my 
mind amongst friends in those places. From thence I went 
to Fork Creek, and so to Cedar Creek again; at vvhicli 
place I now had a meeting. Here I found a tender seed; 
and as I was preserved in the ministry to keep low with tb^ 

5 



60 TIIEJOURNALOF* 

Truth, the same truth in their hearts answerecf it; that it 
was a time of mutual refreshment from the presence of the 
Lord, 1 lodged at James Standle}''s, fatlier of William 
Standley, one of the young men who suffered imprisonment 
at Winchester last summer, on account of their testimony 
against fighting; and I had some satisfactory conversation 
with him concerning it. Hence I went to the Swamp- 
meeting, and to Wayanoke-meeting; and then crossed 
James' River, and lodged near Burleigh. From the time 
of my entering Maryland I have been much under sorrow, 
which of late so increased upon me, that my mind was al- 
most overwhelmed; and I may say with the psalmist, '•'- In 
my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried to my God;" 
who, in infinite goodness, looked upon my affliction, and 
in my private retirement sent the Comforter for my relief; 
for which I humbly bless his holy name. 

The sense 1 had of the slate of the churches, brought 
a weight of distress upon me. The gold to me appeared dim, 
and the fine gold changed; and though this isthe case too ge- 
nerally, yet the sense of it in these parts liath in a particular 
manner, borne heavy upon me. It appeared to me, that 
through the prevailing of the spirit of this world, the minds 
of many were brouglit to an inward desolation; and instead 
of the spirit of meekness, gentleness, and heavenly wisdom, 
which are the necessary companions of the true sheep of 
Christ, a spirit of fierceness, and the love of dominion, 
too generally prevailed. From small beginnings in error, 
great buildings, by degrees, are raised; and from one age 
to another are more and more strengthened by the general 
concurrence of the people; and as men obtain reputation 
by their profession of the truth, their virtues are mentioned 
as arguments in favor of general error; and those of less 
note, to justify themselves, say, such and such good men 
did tlie like. By what other steps could the people of 
Judah arise to that height in wickedness, as to give just 
ground for the prophet Isaiah to declare in the name of the 
Lord, "• that none callelh for justice, nor any pleadeth t^or 
truth," Isaiah lix. 4. or for the Almighty to call upon the 
great city of Jerusalem, just before the Babylonish captivi- 
ty, " If ye can find a man, if there be any who executeih 



J H N W L M A N . 51 

judgment, that seeketh the truth, and I will pardon it." 
Jer. V. 1st. 

The prospect of a way being open to the same degene- 
racy,* some parts of this newly settled land of America, 
in respect to our conduct towards the negroes, hath deeply- 
bowed my mind in this journey; and though briefly 
to relate how these people are treated is no agreeable work; 
yet, after often reading over the notes I made as I travel- 
led, I find my mind engaged to preserve them. Many of 
the white people in those provinces take little or no care of 
negro marriages; and when negroes marry after their ow^n 
way, some make so little account of those marriages, that 
with views of outward interest, they often part men from 
their wives by selling them far asunder; which is common 
when estates are sold by executors at vendue. Many 
whose labor is heavy, being followed at their business in the 
field, by a man with a whip, hired for that purpose, have 
in common little else allowed but one peck of Indian corn 
and some salt, for one week, with a (ew potatoes; the po- 
tatoes they commonly raise by their labor on the first day 
of the week. The correction ensuing on their disobe- 
dience to overseers, or slothfulness in business, is often 
very severe, and sometimes desperate. 

Men and women have many times scarcely clothes suffi- 
cient to hide their nakedness, and boys and girls, ten and 
twelve years old, are often quite naked amongst their mas- 
ter's children. Some of our society, and some of the so- 
ciety called new-li®;hts, use some endeavors X^ instruct 
those they have in reading; but in common this is not only 
neglected, but disapproved. These are the people by 
whose labor the other inhabitants are in a ^reat measure 
supported, and many of them in the luxuries oflife^ These 
are the people who have made no agreement to serve us, and 
who have not forfeited their liberty that we know of. 
These are the souls for whom Christ died; and for our con- 
duct towards them, we must answer before Him who is no 
respecter of persons. They who know the only true God, 
and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent, and are thus ac- 
quainted with the merciful, benevolent, gospel spirit, will 
therein perceive that the indignation of God is kindled 



52 THEJOURNALOF 

against oppression and cruelty; and in beholding the great 
distress of so numerous a people, will find cause for 
mourning. 

From my lodgings I went to Burleigh- meeting, wnere I 
felt my mind drawn in a quiet resigned state. After long 
silence, I felt an engagement to stand up; and through the 
powerful operation of divine love, we were favored with 
an edifying meeting. The next meeting we had was at 
Black- Water; and from thenre went to the yearly-meeting 
at the Western Bran(^. When business began, some 
queries were introduced oy some of their members for con- 
sideration; and if approved, tiiey were to be answered 
hereafter by their respective monthly-meetings. They 
were the Pennsylvania queries, which had been examined 
by a committee of Virginia yearly meeting appointed the 
last year, who made some alterations in them; one of which 
alterations was made in favor of a custom which troubled 
me. The query was, ^' Are there any concerned in the 
importation of negroes, or in buying them after imported?'* 
which was thus ahered. '' Are there any concerned in the 
importation of negroes, or buying them to trade in?" As 
one query admitted with unanimity was, " Are any con- 
cerned in buying or vending goods unlawfully imported, or 
prize goods?" 1 found my mind engaged to say, that as 
we profess the truth, and were there assembled to support 
the testimony of it, it w'as necessary for us to dwell deep, 
and act in that wisdom which is puie; or otherwise we could 
not prosper. I then mentioned their alteration; and refer- 
ring to the last mentioned query, added, that as purchasing 
any merchandize taken by the sword, was always allowed 
to be inconsistent with our principles; so negroes being 
captives of war, or taken by stealth, it was inconsistent 
with our testimony to buy them; and their being our fel- 
low-creatures, and sold as slaves, added greatly to the ini- 
quity. Friends appeared attentive to what was said; some 
expressed a care and concern about their negroes; none 
made any objection, by way of reply lo what I said; but 
the query was admitted as they had altered it. 

As some of their members have heretofore traded in ne- 
groes, as in other merchandize, this query being admittedj 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 63 

"wTll be one ^tep further than they have hitherto gone; and 
I did not see it my duty to press for an alteration: but fell: 
easy to leave it all to Him, who alone is able to turn the 
hearts of the mighty, and make way for the spreading of 
truth on the earth, by means agreeable to his infinite wis- 
dom. In regard to those they already had, I felt my mind 
engaged to labor with them; and said, that, as we believe 
the scriptures were given forth by holy m«n, as they were 
moved by the Holy Ghost, and many of us know by ex- 
perience that they are often helpful and comfortable, and 
believe ourselves bound in duty to teach our children to 
read them; I believed that if we were divested of all sel- 
fish views, tlie same good spirit that gave them forth, 
would engage us to teach the negroes to read, that they 
might have the benefit of them. Som.e present manifest- 
ed a concern to take more care in the education of their 
negroes. 

Twenty-ninth fifth month. At the house where 1 lodg- 
ed was a meeting of ministers and elders. I found an en- 
gagement to speak freely and plainly to them concerning 
their slaves; mentioning how they, as the first rank in the 
society, whose conduct in that case was much noticed by 
others, were under the stronger obligations to look careful- 
ly to themselves. Expressing how needful it was foi" 
them in that situation, to be thoroughly divested of all sel- 
fish views; that living in the pure truth, and acting con- 
scientiously tovi'ards those people in their education and 
otherwise, they might be instrumental in helping forward 
a work so exceedingly necessary, and so much neglected 
amongst them. At the twelfth hour the meeting of wor- 
ship began, which was a solid meeting. 

The next day, about the tenth hour, friends met to finish 
iheir business, and then the meeting for worship ensued, 
which to me was a laborious time; but through the good- 
ness of the Lord, truth I believed gained some ground; 
and it was a strengt'bening opportunity to the honest heart- 
ed. 

About this time I wrote an epistle to friends in the back 
settlements of North Carolina, as follows; 

5* 



54 THEJOURNALOF 

To Friends at their monthly-meeting at J^ew Garden 
and Cane Creek, in J^orth Carolina. 
Dear friends, 

It having pleased the Lord to draw me forth on a visit 
to some parts of Virginia and Carolina, you have often 
been in my mind; and though my way is not clear to come 
in person to visit you, yet I feel it in my heart to com- 
municate a few things, as they arise in the love of truth. 
First, my dear friends, dwell in humility; and take heed 
that no views of outward gain get too deep hold of you, 
that so your eyes being single to the Lord, you may be 
preserved in the way of safety. Where people let loose 
their minds after the love of outward things, and are more 
engaged in pursuing the profits, and seeking the friend- 
ships of this world, than to be inwardly acquainted with 
the way of true peace; they walk in a vain shadow, while 
the true comfort of life is wanting. Their examples are 
often hurtful to others; and their treasures thus collected, 
do many times prove dangerous snares to their children. 

But where people are sincerely devoted to follow Christ, 
and dwell under the influence of his Holy Spirit, their 
stability and firmness, through a divine blessing, is at 
times like dew on the tender plants round about them, 
and the weightiness of tlieir spirits secretly works on the 
minds of others. In this condition, through the spreading 
influence of divine love, they feci a care over the flock; 
and way is opened for maintaining good order in the socie- 
ty. And though v.e may meet with opposition from ano- 
ther spirit, yet, as there is a dwelling in meekness, feeling 
our spirits subject, and moving only in the genile peaceable 
wisdom, the inward reward of quietness will be greater 
than all our difliculties. Where the pure life is kept to, 
and meetings of discipline are held in the authority of it, 
we find by experience that they are comfortable, and tend 
to the health of the body. 

While I write, the youth come fresh in my way. Dear 
young people, choose God for your [)orlion; love his truth, 
and be not ashamed of it; choose for your company such as 
serve him in uprightness; and shun as most dangerous, 
the conversaiion of those whose lives are oi an ill savor- 



J H N W L M A N . i 55 

for by frequenting such company, some hopeful young 
people have come to great loss, and been drawn from less 
evils to greater, to iheir utter ruin. In the bloom of youth 
no ornament is so lovely as that of virtue, nor any enjov- 
ments equal to those which we partake of, in fully resign- 
ing ourselves to the divine will. Tliese enjoyments add 
sweetness to all other comforts, and give true satisfaction 
in company and conversation, where people are mutually 
acquainted with it; and as your minds are thus seasoned 
with the truth, you will find strength to abide stedfast to 
the testimony of it, and be prepared for services "in the 
church. 

And now dear friends and brethren, as you are improv- 
ing a wilderness, and may be numbered amongst the first 
planters in one part of a province, I beseech you, in the 
love of Jesus Christ, wisely to consider the force of your 
examples, and think how much your successors may be 
thereby affected. It is a help in a country, yea, and a 
great favor and blessing, when customs first settled are agree- 
able to sound wisdom; but when they are otherwise, the effect 
of them is grievous; and children feel themselves encom- 
passed with difficulties prepared for them by their predeces- 
sors. 

As moderate care and excercise, under the direction of 
true wisdom, are useful both to mind and body; so, by 
these means in general, the real wants of life are easily sup- 
plied. Our gracious Father having so proportioned one to 
the other, that keeping in the medium we may pass on 
quietly. Where slaves are purchased to do our labor, 
numerous difficulties attend it. To rational creatures bon- 
dage is uneasy, and frequently occasions sourness and dis- 
content in them; which affects the family, and such as 
claim the mastery over them. Thus people and tlieir chil- 
dren are many times encompassed with vexations, which 
arise from their applying to wrong methods to get a living. 

I have been informed that there is a large number of 
friends in your parts, who have no slaves; and in tender 
and most affectionate love, I beseech you to keep clear 
from purchasing any. Look, my dear friends, to Divine 
Providence; and follow in simplicity that exercise of body, 



56 T II E J U R N A L e F 

that plainness and frugality, which true wisdom leads to; 
so may you he preserved from those dangers which attend 
such as are aiming at outward ease and greatness. 

Treasures, though small, attained on a true principle of 
virtue, are sweet: and while we vralk in the light of the 
Lord, there is true comfort and satisfaction in the posses- 
sion: neither the murmurs of an oppressed people, nor a 
throbbing uneasy conscience, nor anxious thoughts about 
the events of things, hinder the enjoyment of them. 

When we look towards the end of life, and think on the 
division of our substance among our successors; if we 
know that it was collected in the fear of the Lord, ia 
honesty, in equity, and in uprightness of heart before Him, 
we may consider it as his gift to us; and with a single eye 
to his blessing, bestow it on those we leave behind us. 
Such is the happiness of the plain ways of true virtue. 
*' The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the ef- 
fect of righteousness, quietness and assurance for ever." 
Isa. xxxii. 17. 

Dwell here, my dear friends; and then in remote and 
solitary deserts, you may find true peace and satisfaction. 
If the Lord be our God, in truth and reality, there is safe- 
ty for us; for He is a strong hold in the day of trouble, 
and knoweth them that trust in Him. 

Isle of Wight County^ in Virginia, 
20th of the dth month, 1757. 

From the yearly meeting in Virginia I went to Carolina; 
and, on the first of sixth month, was at Wells montlily 
meeting, where the spring of the gospel ministry was open- 
fid, and the love of Jesus Christ experienced amongst us: 
to his name be the praise. 

Here my brother joined with some friends from New 
Garden, who were going homeward; and I went next to 
Simons Creek monthly meeting, where I was silent during 
the meeting for worship. When business came on, my 
mind was exercised concerning the poor slaves; but 1 did 
not feel my way clear to speak. In this condition I was 
bowed in spirit before the Lord; and with tears and inward 



J n N vv L M xi N . 57 

supplication besought Him, so to open my understanding, 
thai I might know his will concerning me; and, at length, 
my mind was settled in silence. Near the end of their 
business, a member of their meeting expressed a concern, 
that had some lime lain upon him, on account of friends so 
much neglecting their duty in the education of their slaves; 
and proposed having meetings sometimes appointed for 
them on a week-day, to be attended only by some friends 
to be named in their montl)ly meetings. Many present 
appeared to unite with the proposal. One said, he had 
often wondered that they, being our fellow-creatures, and 
capable of religious understanding, had been so exceeding- 
ly neglected: another expressed the like concern, and ap- 
peared zealous that, in future, it might be more closely 
considered. At length a minute was made; and the fur- 
ther consideration of it referred to their next monthly 
meeting. The friend who made tl)is proposal hath negroes: 
he told me, that he was at New Garden, about two hundred 
and fifty miles from home, and came back alone; that in 
this solitary journey, this exercise, in regard to the educa- 
tion of their negroes, was from time to lime renewed in 
his mind. A fiiend of some note in Virginia, who hath 
slaves, told me, that he being far from home on a lonesome 
journey had many serious thoughts about them; and his 
mind was so injpressed therewith, that he believed he saw 
a time coming, when Divine Providence would alter the 
circumstance of these people, respecting their condition 
as slaves. 

From hence I went to a meeting at Newbegun Creek, 
and sat a considerable time in much weakness; then I felt 
truth open the way to speak a little in much plainness and 
simplicity, till, at length, through the increase of divine 
love amongst us, we had a seasoning opportunity. This 
was also the case at the head of Little River, where we 
had a crowded meeting on a first day. I went thence to 
the Old Neck; where 1 was led into a careful searching 
out of the secret workings of ihe mystery of iniquity, 
which, under a cover of relig;ion, exalts itself against that 
pure spirit, which leads in the way of meekness and self- 
denial. Pineywoods was the last meeting I was at in 



58 THEJOURNA.LOP 

Carolina; it was large; and my heart being deeply engaged, 
I was drawn forth into a fervent labor aoiongst them. 

When I was at Newbegun Creek, a friend was there 
who labored for his living, having no negroes, and who 
had been a minister niany years. He came to me the next 
day; and as we rode together, he signified that he wanted 
to talk with me concerning a difficuhy he had been under, 
which he related nearly as follows. That as monies had 
of late years been raised by a lax to carry on the wars, he 
had a scruple in his mind in regard to paying it; and chose 
rather to suffer distraint of his goods; but as he was the 
only person who refused it in those parts, and knew not 
that any one else was in the like circumstances, he signified 
that it had been a heavy trial to him; especially as some 
of his brethren had been uneasy with his conduct in that 
case. He added, that from a sympathy he felt with me 
yesterday in meeting, he found freedom thus to open the 
matter, in the way of querying concerning friends in our 
parts: I told him the state of friends amongst us, as well 
as I was able; and also that I had, for some time, been 
under the like scruple. I believed him to be one who was 
concerned to walk uprightly before the Lord; and esteem- 
ed it my duty to preserve this note concerning him, Sam- 
uel New by. 

From hence I went back into Virginia, and had a meet- 
ing near James Cowpland's; it was a time of inward suffer- 
ing; but through the goodness of the Lord, 1 was made 
content; at another meeting, through the renewings of pure 
love, we had a very comfortable season. 

Travelling up and down of late, I have had renewed 
evidences, that to be faithful to the Lord, and content with 
his will concerning me, is a most necessary and useful les- 
son for me to be learning; looking less at the efi^ects of my 
labor, than at {he pure motion and reality of the concern, as 
it arises from heavenly love. In the Lord Jehovah is ever- 
lasting strength; and as the mind, by humble resignation, is 
united to Him, and we utter words from an inward knowledge 
that they arise from the heavenly spring, though our way 
may be difficult, and it may require close attention to keep 
in it; and though the manner in which we may be led, may 



JOHNTTOOLMAff* W 

te^d to our own abasement; yet, if we continue in patience 
and meekness, bearenly peace will be the reward of our 
labors. 

I altended Curies meeting; which, though small, w«s 
reviving to the honest hearted. Afterwards I went to 
Black Creek and Caroline Meetings; from whence, ac- 
companied by Wm. Standley before mentioned, I rode to 
Goose Creek, being n)uch through the woods, and about 
one hundred miles. We lodged the first night at a public- 
house; the second in the woods; and the next day we 
reached a friend's house at Goose Creek. In the woods 
we were under some disadvantage, having no fire-works 
nor bells for our horses; but we slopped a little before night, 
and let them feed on the wild grass which was plentiful; in 
the mean time cutting with our knives a store against night. 
We then secured our horses, and gathering some bushes 
under an oak, we lay down; but the musquetoes being nu- 
merous and the ground damp, I slept but little. Thus ly- 
ing in the wilderness, and looking at the stars, I was led 
to contemplate on the condition of our first parents, when 
they were sent forth from the garden; how the Almighty, 
though they had been disobedient, continued to be a father 
to thetn; and showed them what tended to their felicity as 
intelligent creatures, and was acceptable to Him. To pro- 
vide things relative to our outward living, in the way of 
true wisdom, is good; and the gift of improving in things 
useful, is a good gift, and comes from the Father of lights. 
Many have had this gift; and from age to age, there have 
been improvements of this kind made in the world. But 
some not keeping to the pure gift, have, in the creaturely 
cunning and self-exaltation, sought out many inventions. 
As the first motive to these inventions of men, as distinct 
from that uprightness in which man was created, was evil, 
so the efi^ects have been and are evil. It is therefore as 
necessary for us at this day constantly to attend on the 
heavenly gift, to be qualified to use rightly the good things 
in this life amidst great improvements, as it was for our first 
parents, when they were without any improvements, with- 
out any friend or father but God only. 

T was at a meeting at Goose Creek; and next at a 



60 T H E J U R N A L F 

monthly meeting at Fairfax; where, through the gracious 
dealing of the Almigljty with us, his power prevailed 
over many hearts. From thence J went to iNIonoquacy 
and Pipe Creek, in Maryland; at both places 1 had 
cause humbly to adore Him, who had supported me 
through many exercises, and by whose help T was enabled 
to reach the true witness in the hearts of others. There 
were some hopeful young people in those parts. I had 
ineetings afterwards at John Fverit's in Monalen, and at 
Huntingdon; and I was made huml)ly thankful to the Lord, 
who o])ened my heart amongst the people in these new 
settlements, so thai it was a time of encouragement to the 
honest minded. 

At Monalen, a friend gave me some account of a relig- 
ious society among the Dutch, called Mennonists ; and 
amongst other things, related a passage in substance as fol- 
lows : — One of the Mennonists having acquaintance with a 
man of another society at a considerable distance, and be- 
ing with his waggon on business near the house of his said 
acquaintance, and night coming on, he had thoughts of put- 
ting up will) him; but passing by his fields, and observing 
the distressed appearance of his slaves, he kindled afire 
in the woods hard by, and lay there that night. His said 
acquaintance heajing where he lodged, and afterward meet- 
ing the Mennonist, told him of it; adding, he should have 
been heartily welcome at his house; and' from their ac- 
quaintance in former time, wondered at his conduct in that 
case, 'i'he Mennonist re[)lied, '•'• ever since 1 lodged by thy 
field, I have warned an opportunity to speak with thee. I 
had intended to con)e to thy house for entertainment; but 
seeing thy slaves at their work, and observing the manner of 
(heir dress, I had no liking to come to j)artake with thee." 
He then admonished liim to use them with more humanity; 
and added, '' as I lay by the fire that night, I thought that 
as I was a man of substance, thou wouldst have received 
me freely; but if I had been as poor as one of thy slaves, 
and had no power to help myself, I should have received 
from thy hand no kinder usage than they." 

In this journey, I was out about too months, and travel- 
ed about eleven hundred and fifty miles. I returned home 



JOHNWGOLMAN. 61 

under a humbling sense of the gracious dealings of the 

Lord with me, in preserving me through many trials and 
4afflictions. 



CHAPTER V. 

1757.— 1758. 

Considerations on the payment of a tax^ laid for carrying on the war 
ugainst the Indians. — Meetings of the coinmitiee of the yearly meeting 
at Philadelphia. — Some notes on Thomas a Kempis and John Huss, — 
The present circumstances of friends in Pensylvania and JVew Jersey 
very different from tlwse of our predecessors. — The draughting of the 
militia^ in JVew Jersy to serve in the army; with some observations on tlie 
state of the members of our society at that time. — Visit to friends in 
Pennsylvania, accompanied by Benjamin Jones. — Proceedings at the 
■monthly, quarterly, and yearly meetings in Philadelphia, respecting 
those who keep slaves. 

A few years past, money being made current in our 
prdvince for carrying on wars, and to be called in again 
by taxes laid on the inhabitants, ray mind was often affect- 
ed with the thoughts of paying such taxes; and I believe 
it right for me to preserve a memorandum concerning it. 
I was told that friends in England frequently paid taxes, 
when the money was applied to such purposes. I had 
conversation Vvilh several noted friends on the subject, who 
all favored the payment of such taxes; some of them I 
preferred before myself, and tliis made me easier fora time; 
yet there was in the depth of my mind, a scruple which I 
never could get over; and, at certain times, I was greatly 
distressed on that account. 

I believed that there were some upright-heaited men, who 
paid such taxes; yet could not see that their example was 
a sufficient reason for me to do so, while I believe that the 
spirit of truth required of me, as an individual, to suffer 
patiently the distress of goods, rather than pay actively. 

To refuse the active payment of a tax which our socie- 
ty generally paid was exceedingly disagreeable; but to do 

6 



62 THE JOURNAL OF 

a thing contrary to my conscience, appeared yet more 
dreadful. When this exercise came upon me, I knew of 
none under the hke difficulty ; and in my distress, I besought 
the Lord to enable me to give up all, that so I might follow 
him wheresoever He was pleased to lead me. Under this 
exercise I went to our yearly meeting at Philadelphia in 
the year 1755; at which a committee was appointed of 
some from each quarterly meeting, to correspond with the 
meeting for sufferings in London: and another to visit our 
monthly and quarterly meetings. After their appointment, 
before the last adjournment of the meeting, it was agreed 
that these two committees should meet together in friends, 
school-house in the city, to consider some things in which 
the cause of truth was concerned. They accordingly had 
a weighty conference in the fear of the Lord; at which 
time I perceived there were many friends under a scruple 
like that before-mentioned*. 

As scrupling to pay a tax on account of the applica- 
tion, hath seldom been heard of heretofore, even amongst 
men of integrity, who have steadily borne their testimony 
against outward wars in their lime; I may therefore note 
some things which have occurred to my mind, as I have 
been inwardly exercised on that account. From the steady 
opposition which faithful friends, in early times, made to 
wrong things then approved, they were hated and persecut- 
ed by men living in the spirit of this world: and suffering 
with firmness, they were made a blessing to the church, 
and the work prospered. It equally concerns men, in 
every age, to take heed to their own spirits; and in com- 
paring their situation with ours, to me it appears that there 
was less danger of their being infected with the spirit of 
this world, in paying such taxes, than is the case with us 
now. They had little or no share in civil government; 
and many of them declared that they were, through the 
power of God, separated from the spirit in which wars 
were; and being afflicted by the rulers on account of their 
testimony, there was less likelihood of their uniting in spirit 

* Christians refused to pay taxes to support heathen temples. See 
Caves' Prirnilive Christianity, part III. page 327. 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 6$ 

with them in things inconsistent with the purity of truth. 
We, from the first settlement of this land, have known 
little or no troubles of that sort. The jDrofession of our 
predecessors was for a time accounted reproachful; but at 
length their uprightness being understood by the rulers, and 
their innocent sufferings moving them, our way of w^orship 
was tolerated; and many of our members in these colonies 
became active in civil government. Being thus tried with 
favor and prosperity, this world appeared inviting; our 
minds have been turned to th^ improvement of our coun- 
try, to merchandize and the sciences, amongst which are 
many things useful, if followed in pure wisdom; but in our 
present condition, I believe it will not be denied that a 
carnal mind is gaining upon us. Some of our members, 
who are officers in civil government, are, in one case or 
other, called upon in their respective stations to assist in 
things relative to the wars: but being in doubt whether to 
act, or to crave to be excused from their office, if they see 
their brethren united in the payment of a tax to carry on 
the said wars, may think their case not much different, and 
so might quench the tender movings of the Holy spirit in 
their minds. Thus, by small degrees, we might approach 
so near to fighting, that the distinction would be little else 
than the name of a peaceable people. 

It requires great self-denial and resignation of ourselves 
to God, to attain that state wherein we can freely cease 
from fighting when wrongfully invaded; if, by our fighting, 
there were a probability of overcoming the invaders. 
Whoever rightly attains to it, does in some degree feel that 
spirit, in which our Redeemer gave his life for us; and 
throu2;h divine goodness, many of our predecessors, and 
many now living, have learned this blessed lesson; but 
many others, having their religion chiefly by education, 
and not being enough acquainted with that cross which 
crucifies to the world, do manifest a temper distinguishable 
from that of an entire trust in God. In calmly consider- 
ing these things, it hath not appeared strange to me, that 
an exercise hath now fallen upon some, which, with respect 
to the outward means, is different from what was known to 
many of those who went before us. 



64 THEJOURNALOF 

Some time after the yearly meeting, the said commltteeiy 
met at Philadelphia; and, by adjourn^ments, continued sit- 
ting several days. The calamities of war were now in- 
creasing; tlie frontier inhabitants of Pennsylvania were 
frequently surprised; some were slain, and many taken 
captive by the Indians; and wliile these committees sat, 
the corpse of one so slain was brought in a wagon, and 
taken through the streets of the city in his bloody garments, 
to alarm the people, and rouse them to war. 

Friends thus met were not all of one mind in relation t& 
the tax; which, to those who scrupled it, made ihe way 
more difficult. To refuse an active payment at such a 
time, might be construed into an act of disloyalty, and ap- 
peared likely to displease the rulers, not only here but in 
England; still there was a scruple so fixed on the minds of 
many friends, that nothing moved it. It was a conference 
the most weighty that ever I was at; and the hearts of 
many were bowed in reverence before the Most High, 
Some friends of the said committees who appeared easy 
to pay the tax, after several adjournments, withdrew; 
tohers of them continued till the last. At length, an epistle 
of tender love and caution to friends in Pennsylvania, was 
drawn up; and being read several times and corrected, was 
signed by such as w^ere free to sign it, and afterward sent 
to the monthly and quarterly meelinffs. 

Ninth of eighth month, 1757. Orders came at night to 
the military officers in our county (Burlington), directing 
them to draught the militia, and prejiare a number of men 
to go off as soldiers, to the relief of the English at Fort 
Will/am Henry, in New York government; a few days 
after which, there was a general review of the militia at 
Mount Holly, and a number of men were chosen and sent 
off under some officers. Shortly after, there came orders 
to draught three times as many, who were to hold them- 
selves in readiness to march when fresh orders came^ 
On the 17ih there was a meeting of the military officers at 
Mount Holly, who agreed on draught; orders were sent to 
the men so chosen, to meet their respective captains at 
set times and places, those in our township to meet at 
Mount Holly; amongst whom were a considerable number 



J H N W L M A N . 6$ 

of our sociely. My mind being affected herewith, I had 
fresh opportunity to see and consider the advantage of liv- 
ing in the real substance of religion, u'here practice doth 
harmonize with principle. x\n)ongst the officers are men 
of understanding, who have some regard to sincerity where 
they see it; and when such in the execution of their office, 
have men to deal with whom they believe to be upright- 
hearted, it is a painful task to put them to trouble on ac- 
count of scruples of conscience, and they will be likely to 
avoid it as much as easily may be. But where men pro- 
fess to be so meek and heavenly-minded, and to have their 
trust so firmly settled in God., that they cannot join in wars; 
and yet, by their spirit and conduct in common life, manifest 
a contrary disposition, their difficulties are great at such a 
time. 

When officers who are anxiously endeavoring to get 
troops to answer the demands of their superiors* see men, 
who are insincere, pretend scruple of conscience, in hopes 
of being excused from a dangerous employment, it is like- 
ly they will be roughly handled. In this time of commo- 
tion some of our young men left these parts, and tarried 
abroad till it was over; some came, and proposed to go 
as soldiers; otliers appeared to have a real tender 
scruple in their minds against joining in wars, and 
were much humbled under the apprehension of a trial so 
near. I had conversation with several of them to my satis- 
faction. When the Captain came to town, some of the 
!ast mentioned w^ent and told him in substance as follows: 
— ^That they could not bear arms for conscience sake; nor 
could they hire any to go in their places, being resigned as 
to the event. At length the Captain acquainted them all, 
that they might return home for the present, but he requir- 
ed them to provide themselves as soldiers, and be in readi- 
ness to march when called upon. This was such a time 
as I had not seen before; and yet 1 may say. With thank- 
fulness to the Lord, that I believed the trial was intended 
for our good; and 1 was favored with resignation to Him. 
The French army having taken the fort they were besieg- 
ing, destroyed it and went aw.iy; the company of men who 

were first draughted, after some days march, had orders to 
6# 



66 THEJOURNALOF 

return home; and those on fhe second draught were no 
more called upon on that occasion. 

Fourth, of fourth month, 1758. Orders came to some 
officers in Mount Holly, to prepare quarters for a short 
time, for about one hundred soldiers. An officer and two 
other rnen, all inhabiiants of our town, came to my house. 
The officer told me, that he came to desire me to provide 
lodging and entertainment for two soldiers, and that six 
shillings a week per man would be allowed as pay for it. 
The case being new and unexpected, I made no answer 
suddenly; but sat a time silent, my mind being inward. I 
was fully convinced, that the proceedings in wars are in- 
consistent with the purity of the Christian religion; and to 
be hired to entertain men, who were then under pay as 
soldiers, was a difficulty with me. I expected they had 
legal authority for what they did; and after a short lime I 
said to the officer, if the men are sent herefor entertainment, 
T believe I shall not refuse to admit them into my house; but 
the nature of the case is such, that I expect I cannot keep 
them on hire: one of the men intimated, that he thought 
I might do it consistently with my religious principles. To 
which I made no reply; believing silence, at that time best 
forme. Though they spake of two, there came only one, 
who tarried at my house about two weeks, and behaved 
himself civilly. When the officer came to pay me, I told 
him I could not take pay, having admitted him mto my 
house in a passive obedience to authority. I was on horse- 
back when he spake to me; and as I turned from him, he 
said he was obliged to me; to which I said nothmg; but 
thinking on the expression, I grew uneasy; and afterwards, 
being near where he lived, I went and told him on what 
grounds I refused taking pay for keeping the soldier. 

I have been informed that Thomas a Kempis lived and 
died in the profession of the Roman Catholic religion; and 
in reading his writings, I have believed him to be a man 
of a true Christian spirit; as fully so as many who died 
martyrs, because they could not join with some supersti- 
tions in that church. All true Christians are of the same 
spirit, but their gifts are diverse; Jesus Christ appoitinng 
to each one his peculiar office, agreeably to his infinite 
wisdom. 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 67 

John Hliss contended against the errors which had crept 
into the church, in opposition to the council of Constance; 
which the historian reports to have consisted of some thou- 
sand persons. He modestly vindicated the cause which 
he believed was right; and though his language and con- 
duct towards his judges appear to have been respectful, 
yet he never could be moved from the principles settled in 
his mind. To use his own words; " This I most humbly 
require and desire of you all, even for his sake who is the 
God of us all, that I be not compelled to the thing which 
my conscience doth repugn or strive against." And again, 
in his answer to the emperor; '' I refuse nothing, most no- 
ble emperor, whatsoever the council shall decree or deter- 
mine upon me, only this one thing I except, that I do not 
offend God and my conscience." Fox's Acts and Mon- 
uments, page 233. At length rather than act contrary to 
that which he believed the Lord required of him, he chose 
to sufier death by fire. Thomas a Kempis, without dis- 
puting against the articles then generally agreed to, ap- 
pears to have labored, by a pious example as well as by 
preaching and writing, to promote virtue, and the inward 
spiritual religion; and I believe they were both sincere- 
hearted followers of Christ. True charity is an excc^llent 
virtue; and sincerely to labor for their good, whose belief 
in all points doth not agree with ours, is a happy state. 

Near the beginning of the year 1758, T went one even- 
ing, in company with a friend, to visit a sick person; and 
before our return, we were told of a woman living near, 
who had for several days been disconsolaie, occasioned by 
a dream; wherein death, and the judgments of the Almigh- 
ty after death, were represented to her mind in a moving 
manner. Her sadness on that account, being worn off, 
the friend, with whom I was in company, went to see her, 
and had some religious conversation with her and her hus- 
band. With this visit they were somewhat affected: and 
the man, with many tears, expressed his satisfaction. In 
a short time after, the poor man, being on the river in a 
storm of wind, was with one more drowned. 

Eighth month. 1758. Having had drawings in my 
mind to be at the quarterly meeting in Chester county, and 



68 THEJOURNALOP 

at some meetings in the county of Philadelphia, I went 
first to said quarterly meeting, which was large. Several 
weighty matters came under consideration and debate; 
and the Lord was pleased to qualify some of his ser- 
vants with strength and firmness, to bear the burden of the 
day. Though I said but little my mind was deeply exer- 
cised; and, under a sense of God's love, in the anointing 
and fitting of some young men for his work, I was com- 
forted, and my heart was tendered before Him. From 
hence 1 went to the youth's meeting at Darby, where my 
beloved friend and brother Benjamin Jones met me, by an 
appointment before I left home, to join in the visit. We 
were at Radnor, Merion, Richland, North Wales, Ply- 
mouth, and Abington meetings; and Ijad cause to bow in 
reverence before the Lord, our gracious God, by whose 
help way was opened for us from day to day. I was out 
about two weeks, and rode about two hundred miles. 

The monthly meeting of Philadelphia having been 
under a concern, on account of some friends, who this 
summer (1758) had bought negro slaves, proposed to their 
quarterly meeting, to have the minute reconsidered in the 
yearly meeting, which was made last on that subject; and 
the said quarterly meeting appointed a committee to 
consider it, and to report to their next. This committee 
having met once and adjourned, and I going to Philadel- 
phia to meet a committee of the yearly meeting, was in 
town the evening on which the quarterly meeting's com- 
mittee met the second time; and finding an inclination to 
sit with them, I, with some others, was admitted: and 
friends had a weighty conference on the subject. Soon 
after their next quarterly meeting, I heard that the case was 
coming to our yearly meeting. This brought a weighty ex- 
ercise u()on me, and under a sense of iny own infirmities, and 
the great danger I felt of turning aside from perfect purity, 
my mind was often drawn to retire alone, and put up my 
prayers to the Lord, that He would be graciously pleased 
to strengthen me; that setting aside all views of self-in- 
terest and the fiiendship of this world, I might stand fully 
resigned to his holy will. 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 69 

In this yearly meeting, several weighty matters were 
considered; and toward the last, that in relation to deahng 
with persons who purchase slaves. During the several 
sittings of the said meeting, my mind was frequently covered 
with inward prayer; and I could say with David, " that ' 
tears were my meat day and night." The case of slave- 
keeping lay heavy upon me; nor did I find any engagement 
to speak directly to any other matter before the meeting. 
Now when this case was opened, several faithful friends 
spake weightily thereto, with which I was comforted; and 
feeling a concern to cast in my mite, I said in substance 
as follows: 

"In the difficulties attending us in this life; nothing is 
more precious than the mind of truth inwardly manifested; 
and it is my earnest desire, that in this weiglity matter, we 
may be so truly humbled as to be favoured with a clear 
understanding of the mind of truth, and follow it; this 
would be of more advantage to the society, than any medium 
not in the clearness of divine wisdom. The case is dif- 
ficult to some who have slaves; but if such set aside all 
self-interest, and come to be weaned from the desire of 
getting estates, or even from holding them together, when 
truth requires the contrary, I believe way will so open that 
they will know how to steer through those difficulties." 

Many friends appeared to be deeply bowed under the 
weight of the work; and manifested much firmness in their 
love to the cause of truth and universal righteousness on 
the earth. And though none did openly justify the prac- 
tice of slave keeping in general, yet some appeared con- 
cerned, lest the meeting should go into such measures, as 
might give uneasiness to many brethren; alleging, that if 
friends patiently continued under the exorcise, the Lord, in his 
time, might open a way for the deliverance of these people. 
Finding an engagement to speak, I said, " My mind is of- 
ten led to consider the purity of the Divine Being, and the 
justice of his jndgments; [and herein my soul is covered 
with awfulness. I cannot omit to hint of some cases, where 
people have not been treated with the purity of justice, and 
the event hath been lamentable. Wanv slaves on this con- 
tinent are oppressed, and their cries have reached the ears 



70 THEJOURNALOF 

of the Most High. Such are the purity and certainty of 
his judgments,] that He cannot be partial in our favor. 
In infinite love and goodness He hath opened our un- 
derstanding from one time to another, concerning our duty 
towards this people; and it is not a time for delay. 
Should we now be sensible of what He requires of 
us^ and through a respect to the private interest of some 
persons, or through a regard to some friendships which do 
not stand on an immutable foundation, neglect to do our 
duty in firmness and constancy, still waiting for some ex- 
traordinary means to bring about their deliverance; God 
may by terrible things in righteousness answer us in this 
matter." 

Many faithful brethren labored with great firmness; and 
the love of truth, in a good degree, prevailed. Several 
who had negroes, expressed their desire that a rule might 
be made, to deal with such friends as offenders who bought 
slaves in future. To tliis it was answered, that the root 
of this evil would never be efl^ectually struck at, until a 
thorough search was made in the circumstances of such 
friends as kept negroes, with respect to the righteousness 
of their motives in keeping them, that impartial justice 
might be adujinistered throughout. Several friends ex- 
pressed their desire, that a visit might be made to such 
friends as kept slaves: and many others said that they be- 
lieved liberty was the negroe's right; to which, at length, 
no opposition was publicly made. A minute was made 
more full on that subject, than any heretofore; and the 
names of several friends entered, who were free to join in 
a visit to such as kept slaves. 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 71 

CHAPTER VI. 

1758.— 1759. 

Visit to the quarterly meetings in Chester county. — Joins Daniel Stan^ 
ion and John Scarborough, in a visit to such as kept slaves there. — Some 
observations on the conduct 'which those should maintain who speak in 
meetings for discipline. — Afore visits to such as kept slaves, and to 
friends near Salem. — Account of the yearly meeting in the year 1759 
and of the increa^iing concern in dicers provinces, to labor against buy- 
ing and keeping slaves. — The yearly meeting epistle. — Thoughts on the 
swall-pox spreading — and on inocidation. 

11th of llth mo. 1758. This day I set out for Con- 
cord; the quarterly meeting heretofore held there, was 
now, by reason of a great increase of members, divided 
into two by the agreement of friends at our last yearly 
meeting. Here I met with our beloved friends Samuel 
Spavold and Mary Kirby from England, and wnth Joseph 
White from Bucks county; the latter had taken leave of 
his family in order to go on a leligious visit to friends in 
England; and, through divine goodness, we were favored 
with a strengthening opportunity together. 

After this meeting I joined with my friends Daniel Stan- 
ton and John Scarborough in visiting friends who had 
slaves. At night we had a family meeting at William 
Trimble's, many young people being there; and it was a 
precious, reviving opportunity. Next morning we had a 
comfortable sitting with a sick neighbor; and thence to the 
burial of the corpse of a friend at Uwchland meeting, at 
which were many people, and it was a time of divine fa- 
vor; after which, we visited some who had slaves. In 
the evening we had a family meeting at a friend's house, 
where the channel of the gospel love was opened, and my 
mind was comforted after a hard day's labor. The next 
day we were at Goshen monthly meeting; and on the 18th 
attended the quarterly meeting at London Grove, it being 
first held at that place. Here we met again with all the 
before-mentioned friends, and had some edifying meetings. 
Near the conclusion of the meeting for business, friends 



72 THEJOURNALOF 

were incited to constancy in supporting the testimony of 
truth, and reminded of the necessity which the disciples of 
Christ are under, to attend principally to his business, as 
he is pleased to open it to us; and to be particularly care- 
ful to have our minds redeemed from the love of wealth; 
and our outward affairs in as little room as may be; that no 
temporal concerns may entangle our affections, or hinder 
us from diligently following the dictates of truth, in labor- 
ing to promote the pure spirit of meekness and heavenly- 
mindedness amongst the children of men, in these days of 
calamity and distress, wherein God is visiting our land with 
his just judgments. 

Each of these quarterly meetings was large, and sat near 
eight hours, i had occasion to consider that it is a weighty 
thing to speak much in large meetings for business: for, ex- 
cept our minds are rightly prepared, and we cleaily under- 
stand the case we speak to, instead of forwarding, we hin- 
der business, and make more labor for those on whom the 
burden of the work is laid. If selfish views, or a partial 
spirit, have any room in our minds, we are unfit for the 
Lord's work; if we have a clear prospect of the business, 
and proper weight on our minds to speak, we should avoid 
useless apologies and repeiitions. Where people are gather- 
ed from far, and adjourning a meeting of business is attended 
with great difficulty, it behoves all to be cautious how they 
detain a meeting; especially when they hav^e sat six or seven 
hours, and have a great distance to ride home. After this 
meeting I rode home. 

In the beginning of the 12lh month, I joined in company 
with my friends Jolm Sykes and Daniel Stanton in visiting 
such as had slaves. Some, whose hearts were rightly ex- 
ercised about them, appeared to be glad of our visit; but 
in some places our way was more difficult. I often saw 
the necessity of keeping down to that root from whence 
our concern proceeded; and have cause, in reverent thank- 
fulness, humbly to bow down before the Lord, who was 
near to me, and preserved my mind in calmness under some 
sharp conflicts, and begat a spirit of sympathy and tender- 
ness in me, towards some who were grievously entangled 
by the spirit of this world. 



J H N W L M A N . 73 

1st. month, 1759. Having found my mind drawn to visit 
some of the more active meiiibers in our society at Phila- 
delphia, who had slaves, I met my friend John Churchman 
there by agreement; and we continued about a week in the 
■city. We visited some that were sick, and some widows 
and their families; and the other part of our time was most- 
ly employed in visiting such as had slaves. It w^as a time 
of deep exercise, but looking often to the Lord for his as- 
sistance, He in unspeakable kindness, favored us with the 
influence of that spirit, which crucifies to the greatness and 
splendor of this world, and enabling us to go through some 
heavy labors, in which we found peace. 

24th of 3rd mo. 1759. After attending our general 
spring meeting at Philadelphia, I again joined with John 
Ohurchman on a visit to some who had slaves in Philadel- 
phia; and- with thankfulness to our heavenly father, I may 
say, that divine love and a true sympathizing tenderness of 
heart, prevailed at times in this service. 

Having at times perceived a shyness in some friends of 
considerable note towards me, I found an engagement in 
gospel love to pay a visit to one of them; and as I dwelt 
under the exercise, I felt a resignedness in my mind to go 
and tell him privately that 1 had a desire to have an oppor- 
tunity with him alone; to this proposal he readily agreed: 
and then in the fear of the Lord, things relating to that shy- 
ness were searched to the bottom; and we had a large con- 
ference, which, I believe was of use to both of us; and I 
am thankful that way was opened for it. 

14th of 6th mo. Having felt drawings in my mind to 
visit friends about Salem, and having the approbation of 
our monthly meeting, I attended their quarterly meeting, 
and was out seven days, and attended seven meetings; in 
some of them I was chiefly silent; in others, through the 
baptizing power of truth, my heart was enlarged in heaven- 
ly love, and I found a near fellowship with the brethren 
and sisters, in the manifold trials attending their Christian 
progress throngh this world. 

7th mo, I have found an increasing concern on my 
inind to visit some active members in our society who have 
slaves; and having no opportunity of the company of sucli 

7 



74 THEJOURNALOF 

as were named in the minutes of the yearly meeting, 1 went 
alone to their houses, and, in the iear of the Lord, ac- 
quainted them with the exercise I was under: and thus, 
sometimes, by a few words, I found myself discharged 
from a heavy burden. After this, our friend John Cliurch- 
man coming into our province with a view to be at some 
meetings, and to join again in the visit to those who had 
slaves; I bore him company in the said visit to some ac- 
tive members, and found inward satisfaction. 

At our yearly meeting this year, we had some weighty 
seasons; in which the power of truth was largely extended, 
to the strengthening of the honest-minded. As the epistles, 
which were to be sent to the yearly meetings on this con- 
tinent were read, I observed that in most of them, both 
this year and the last, it was recommended to friends to 
labor against buying and keeping slaves; and in some of 
them the subject was closely treated upon. As this prac- 
tice hath long been a heavy exercise to me, and I have 
often waded through mortifying labors on that account; and 
at times in some meetings have been almost alone therein, 
J was humbly bowed in thankfulness in observing the in- 
creasing concern in our religious society, and seeing how 
the Lord was raising up and qualifying servants for his 
work, not only in this respect, but for promoting the cause 
of truth in general. 

This meeting continued near a week. For several days 
in the forepart of it, my mind was drawn into a deep, inward 
stillness; and being at times covered with the spirit of sup- 
plication, my heart was secretly poured out before the Lord. 
Near the conclusion of the meeting for business, way open- 
ed, in the pure flowings of divine love, for me to express 
what lay upon me; which as it then arose in my mind, was 
first to show how deep answers to deep in the hearts of the 
sincere and upright; though, in their different growths, they 
may not all have attained to the same clearness in some 
points relating to our testimony. And I was then led to 
mention the integrity and constancy of many martyrs, who 
gave their lives for the testimony of Jesus: and yet, in 
some points, they held doctrines distinguishable from some 
which we hold; that, in all ages, where people were faith- 



J H N W L M A N , 75 

ful to the ligbt atid utiderstanding which the Most High af- 
forded them, they found acceptance with Him; and though 
there may be different ways of thinking amongst us in some 
particulars, yet, if we mutually keep to that spirit and 
power which crucifies to the world, which teaches us to be 
content wit i things really needful, and to avoid all super- 
fluiiies, and give up our hearts to fear and serve the Lord, 
triie unity may still be preserved amongst us: that if thos6 
who were at times under sufferings on account of some 
scruples of conscience, kept low and humble, and in their 
conduct in life manifested a spirit of trae charity; it would 
be more likely to reach the witness in others, and he of 
more service in the church, than if their sufferings were at- 
tended with a contrary spirit and conduct. In this exer- 
cise 1 was drawn into a sympathising tenderness with the 
sheep of Christ, however distinguished one from another in 
this world; and the like disposition appeared to spread over 
others in the meeting. Great is the goodness of the Lord 
towards his poor creatures. 

An epistle went forth from this yearly meeting, which I 
think good to give a place in this journaL It is as follows: 

From the yearly meeting held at Philadel phia , for Pennsylvania, ajid 
JVew Jersey, from the twenty second day of the ninth month, to the 
twenty eighth of the sojne, inclusive, 1759. 

To the quarterly and monthly meetings of Friends belonging to the 
said yearly meetings 

Dearly beloved Friends and Brethren. 

"In an awful sense of the wisdom and goodness of 
the Lord otir God, whose tender mercies have been con- 
tinued to us in this land, we affectionately salute you, with 
sincere and fervent desires, that we may reverently regard, 
the dispensations of his providence, and improve under 
them. 

" The empires and kingdoms of the earth are subject to 
his Almighty power. He is the God of the spirits of all 
flesh; and deals with his people agreeable to that wisdom, 
the depth whereof is to us unsearchable. We, in these 
provinces may say, He hath, as a gracious and tender pa- 



76 T H E J U R x\ A L F 

rent, dealt bonntifully with us, even from the days of our 
fathers. It was he who strengthened them to labor through 
the difficulties attending the improvement of a wilder- 
ness, and made way for them in the hearts of tlie natives: 
so that by them they were comforted in times of want and 
distress. It was by the gracious influences of his Holy 
Spirit, that they were disposed to work righteousness, ani 
walk uprightly towards each other, and towards the natives; 
in life and conversation to manifest the excellency of the 
principles and doctrines of the Christian religion whereby 
ihey retain their esteem and friendship. Whilst they were- 
laboring for the necessaries of hfe, many of them w'ere 
fervently engaged to promote piety and virtue in the earth,- 
and to educate their children in the fear of the Lord. 

*' If we carefully consider the peaceable measures pursu- 
ed in the first settlement of the land, and that freedom from 
tlie desolations of wars, which for a long time we enjoyed,, 
we shall find ourselves under strong obligations to the Al- 
mighty, who, when the earth is so generally polluted witb 
wickedness, gives us a being in a part so signally favored' 
with tranquillity and plenty, and in which the glad tidings of 
the gospel of Christ are so freely published, that we may 
justly say with the psalmist, " What shall we render unto 
the Lord for all his benefits?'' 

" Our own real good, and the good of our posterity, m 
some measure depends on the part weact;-and it nearly 
concerns us to try our foundations impartially. Such are 
the different rewards of the just and unjust in a future state, 
that to attend diligently to the dictates of the spirit of 
Christ, to devote ourselves to his service, and to engage 
fervently in his cause, during our short stay in this world, 
is a choice well becoming a free intelligent creature- We 
shall thus clearly see and consider that the dealings of God' 
with mankind, in a national capacity, as recorded in holy 
writ, do sufficiently evidence the truth of that saying, '-' It 
is righteousness which exalteth a nation;" and though he 
doth not at all times suddenly execute his judgments on a 
sinful people in this life, yet we see in many instances, that 
when " men follow lying vanities, they forsake their own 
mercies;" and as a proud selfish spirit prevails and spreads 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 77 

?*mong a people; so partial judgment, oppression, discord, 
envy and confusions increase, and provinces and kingdoms 
are made to drink the cup of adversity as a reward of their 
own doings. Thus the inspired prophet, reasoning with 
the degenerated Jews, saith, "• Thine own wickedness shall 
correct thee, and thy backsliding shall reprove thee: know 
therefore, that it is an evil thing and bitter, that thou hast 
forsaken the Lord thy God, and that my fear is not in thee, 
saith the Lord God of Hosts." Jeremiah ii. 19. 

*' The God of our fathers, who hath bestowed on us 
many benefits, furnished a table for us in the wilderness, and 
made the deserts and solitary places to rejoice; He 
doth now mercifully call upon us to serve Him more 
faithfully — We may truly say with the prophet, ''It is his 
vpice which crieth to the city, and men of wisdom see 
his name. They regard the rod, and Him who hath ap- 
pointed it." People who look chiefly at things outward, 
too little consider the original cause of the present 
troubles; but they who fear the Lord, and think often 
upon his name, see and feel that a wrong spirit is spread- 
ing amongst the inhabitants of our country; that the hearts 
of many are waxed fat, and their ears dull of hearing; tiiat 
the Most High, in his visitations to us, instead of calling, 
lifteth up his voice and crieth; He crieth to our country, 
and his voice waxeth louder and louder. In former wars 
between the English and other nations, since the settle- 
ment of our provinces, the calamities attending them have 
fallen chiefly on other places, but now of late they have 
reached to our borders; many of our fellow subjects have 
suffered on and near our frontiers, some have been slain in 
battle, some killed in their houses, and some in their fields, 
some wounded and left in great misery, and others separat- 
ed from their wives and little children, who have been car- 
ried captives among the Indians. We have seen men and 
women who have been witnesses of these scenes of sor- 
row, and being reduced to want, have come to our houses 
asking relief. — It is not long since many young men in one: 
of these provinces were draughted, in order to be taken 
as soldiers; some were at that time in great distress, and 
had occasion to consider that their lives had been too lit- 

7* 



78 THEJOURNALOF 

tie conformable to the purity and spirituality of that relig- 
ion which we profess, and found thenaselves too little ac- 
quainted with that inward humility, in which true fortitude 
to endure hardness for the truth's sake is experienced. — • 
Many parents were concerned for their children, and m 
that time of trial were led to consider, that their care to 
get outward treasure for them, had been greater than their 
care for their settlement in that religion which crucifieth to 
the world, and enableth to bear a clear testimony to the 
peaceable government of the Messiah. These troubles 
are removed, and for a time we are released from them. 

*' Let us not forget that ' The Most High hath his way 
in the deep, in clouds, and in thick darkness' — that it is 
his^ voice which crieth to the city and to the country; and 
oh! that these loud and awakening cries, may have a prop- 
er effect upon us, that heavier chastisement may not be- 
come necessary! For though things, as to the outward, 
may for a short time afford a pleasing prospect; yet, while 
a selfish spirit, that is not subject to the cross of Christ, 
continueth to spread and prevail, there can be no long con- 
tinuance in outward peace and tranquillity. If we desire 
an inheritance incorruptible, and to be at rest in that state 
of peace and happiness, which ever continues; if we de- 
sire in this life to dwell under the favor and protection of 
that Almighty Being, whose habitation is in holiness, 
whose ways are all equal, and whose anger is now kindled 
because of our backslidings; let us then awfully regard 
these beginnings of his sore judgments, and with abase- 
ment and humiliation turn to Him, whom we have of-^ 
fended. 

'^ Contending with one equal in strength, is an uneasy 
exercise; but if the Lord is become our enemy, if we 
persist in contending with Him who is Omnipotent, our 
overthrow will be unavoidable. 

" Do we feel an affectionate regard to posterity? and 
are we employed to promote their happiness? Do our 
minds, in things outward, look beyond our own dissolu- 
tion? and are we contriving for the prosperity of our chil- 
dren after us? Let us then, like wise builders, lay the 
foundation deep; and by our constant uniform regard to an 



J H N W L M A N 71? 

inward piety and virtue, let them see that we really value 
it. Let us labor in the fear of the Lord, that their inno- 
cent minds, while young and tender, may be preserved 
from corruptions; that as they advance in age, they mav 
rightly understand their true interest; may consider the un- 
certainty of temporal things; and, above all, have their 
hope and confidence firmly settled in the blessing of that 
Almighty Being, who inhabits eternity, and preserves and 
supports the world. 

" In all our cares about worldly treasures, let us steadi- 
ly bear in mind, that riches possessed by children, who do 
not truly serve God, are likely to prove snares that may 
more grievously entangle them in that spirit of selfishness 
and exaltation, which stands in opposition to real peace and 
happiness; and renders those who submit to the influence 
of it, enemies to the cross of Christ. 

" To keep a watchful eye towards real objects of char- 
ity, to visit the {>oor in their lonesome dwelling-places, to 
comfort those who, through the dispensations of Divine 
Providence, are in strait and painful circumstances in this 
life, and steadily to endeavor to honor God with our sub- 
stance, from a real sense of the love of Christ influensing 
our minds is more likely to bring a blessing to our children, 
and will afford more satisfaction to a christian favored with 
plenty, than an earnest desire to collect much wealth to 
leave behind us; for, " Here we have no continuing city;" 
may we therefore diligently " seek one that is to come, 
whose builder and maker is God." 

" Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatso- 
ever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoev- 
er things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; 
if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on 
these things " and do them, and the God of peace shall be 
with you." 

Signed by appointment, and on behalf of our said meet- 
ing, by seven friends. 

28th 11th mo. This day I attended thequarterly-meet- 
ing in Bucks county. In the meeting of ministers and elders,* 
my heart was enlarged in the love of Jesus Christ; and 
the favor of the Most High was extended to us in that and 
the ensuing meeting. 



80 THEJOURNALOF 

I had conversation, at my lodging, with my beloved 
friend Samuel Eastburn; who expressed a concern to join 
in a visit to some friends in that county, who had negroes; 
and as I had felt a draught in my mind to the said work, 1 
came home and put things in order. On 11th of 12 
mo., T went over the river; and on the next day was at 
Buckingham meeting; where, through the descendings of 
heavenly dew, my mind was comforted, and drawn into a 
near unity with the flock of Jesus Christ. 

Entering upon this business appeared weighty; and be- 
fore I left home my mind was often sad; under which ex- 
ercise I felt, at times, the Holy Spirit which helps our infir- 
mities; and through which my prayers were at times, put 
up to God in private, that he would be pleased to purge 
me from all selfishness, that 1 might be stretigthened to 
discharge my duty faithfully, how hard soever to the natur- 
al part. We proceeded on the visit in a weighty frame of 
spirit, and went to the houses of the most active members 
who had negroes throughout the county. Through the 
goodness of the Lord, my mind was preserved in resigna- 
tion in times of trial; and though the work was hard to na- 
ture, yet through the strength of that love which is stron- 
ger than death, tenderness of heart was often felt amongst 
us in our visits, and we parted from several families with 
greater satisfaction than we expected. 

We visited .Joseph White's family, he being in England; 
we had also a family-sitting at the liouse of an elder who 
bore us company, and were at Makefield on a first day: 
at all which times, my heart v.as truly thankful to the Lord 
who was graciously pleased to renew his loving kindness to 
us, his poor servants, uniting us together in his work. 

In the winter of this year, the small pox being in our 
town, and many being inoculated, of whom a few died, 
some things were opened in my mind, which I wrote as 
follows: 

The more fully our lives are conformable to the will 
of God, the better it is for us — I have looked on the 
small-pox as a messenger from the Almighty, to be an as- 
sistant in the cause of virtue, and to incite us to consider, 
whether we employ our time only in such things as are 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 81 

consistent with perfect wisdom and goodness. Building 
houses suitable to dwell in, for ourselves and our creatures; 
preparing clothing suitable for the climate and season, and 
food convenient, are all duties incumbent on us. And, un- 
der these general heads, are many branches of business, in 
which we may venture health and life, as necessity may re- 
quire. 

This disease being in a house, and my business calling 
me to go near it, incites me to consider whether this is a 
real indispensable duty; whether it is not in conformity to 
some custom, which would be better laid aside; or, whe- 
ther it does not proceed from too eager a pursuit after some 
outward treasure. If the business before me springs not 
from a clear understanding, and a regard to that use of 
things which perfect wisdom approves; to be brought to a 
sense of it, and stopped in my pursuit, is a kindness; for, 
when I proceed to business without some evidence of du- 
ty, I have found by experience that it tends to weakness. 

If J am so situated that there appears no probability of 
missing the infection, it tends to make me think, whether 
my manner of life in things outward, has nothing in it 
which may unfit my body to receive this messenger in a 
way the most favorable to me. Do T use food and drink 
in no other sort, and in no other degree, than was designed 
by Him, who gave these creatures for our sustenance.^ Do 
I never abuse my body by inordinate labor, striving to ac- 
complish some end which I have unwisely proposed? Do 
I use action enough in some useful employ, or do I sit too 
much idle, while some persons, who labor to support me, 
have too great a share of it? If in any of these things, I 
am deficient, to be incited to consider it, is a favor to me. 
Employment is necessary in social life; and this infection, 
which often proves mortal, incites me to think, whether 
these social acts of mine are real duties. If I go on a 
visit to the widows and fatherless, do I go purely on a 
principle of charity, free from any selfish views? If I go 
to a religious meeting, it puts me on thinking v/hether I go 
in sincerity and iu a clear sense of duty; or whether it is 
not partly in conformity to custom, or partly from a sensi- 
ble delight which my animal spirits fee\ in the company of 



82 THEJOURNALOF 

Other people; and whether to support my reputation as a 
religious man has no share in it. 

Do affairs relating to civil society, call me near this in- 
fection? If I go, it is at the hazard of my healih and life; 
and it becomes me to think seriously, whether love to truth 
and rlghteousriess is the motive of njy attending; whether 
the manner of proceeding is altogether equitable; or whe- 
ther aught of narrowness, party interest, respect to out- 
ward dignities, names, or distinctions among men, do not 
stain the beauty of those assemblies, and render it doubt- 
ful; in point of duty, whether a disciple of Christ ought to 
attend as a member united to the body or not. Whenever 
there are blemishes, which, for a series of time, remain 
such; that which is a means of stirring us up to look atten- 
tively on these blemishes, and to labor according to our 
capacities, to have health and soundness restored in our 
country, we may justly account a kindness from our gra- 
cious Father, who af)pointed that means. 

The care of a wise and good man for his only son, is 
inferior to the regard of the great Parent of the universe 
for his creatures. He hath tlie command of all the pow- 
ers and operations in nature; and " doth not afflict willing- 
ly, nor grieve the children of men." Chastisement is in- 
tended for instruction, and instruction being received by 
gentle chastisement, greater calamities are prevented. By 
an earthquake, hundreds of houses are sometimes shaken 
down in a (ew minutes; multitudes of people perish sud- 
denly, and many more being crushed and bruised in the 
ruins of the buildings, pine away and die in great misery. 

By the breaking in of enraged merciless armies, flour- 
ishing countries have been laid waste, great nunjbers of jjeo- 
ple have perished in a short time, and niany more have 
been pressed with poverty and grief. By the pestilence, 
people have died so fast in a city, that through fear, grief, 
and confusion, those in health have found great difficulty in 
burying the dead, even without coffins- By famine, great 
numbers of people in some places, have been brought to 
the utmost distress, and have pined away for want of the 
necessaries of life. Thus, when the kind invitations, 
and gentle chastisements, of a gracious God have not been 



J H N ir L M A N . 83 

attended to, his sore judgments have, at times, been pour- 
ed out upon people. 

While some rules approved in civil society, and con- 
formable to human policy, so called, are distinguishable 
from tlie purity of truth and righteousness; while many 
professing the truth are declining from that ardent love and 
heavenly-mindedness which was amongst the primitive fol- 
lowers of Jesus Cl)rist; it is time for us to attend diligent- 
ly to ihe intent of every chastisement, and to consider the 
most deep and inward design of them. 

The most High doth not often speak with an outward 
voice to our outward ears; but if w'e humbly meditate on 
his perfections, consider that he is perfect wisdom and 
goodness, and that to afflict his creatures to no purpose, 
would be utterly averse to his nature, we shall hear and un- 
derstand his language, both in his gentle and more heavy 
chastisements and shall taiie heed that we do not, in the 
wisdom of this world, endeavor to escape his hand by 
means too powerful for us. 

Had he endowed men wnth understanding to prevent 
this disease, (the small pox) by means which had never 
proved hurtful nor mortal,* such a discovery might be con- 
sidered as the period of chastisement by this distemper, 
where that knowledge extended. But as life and health 
are his gifts, and are not to be disposed of in our own wills, 
to take upon us, by inoculation, when in health, a disorder, 
of which some die, requires great clearness of knowledge, 
that it is our duty to do so. 



CHAPTER VII. 
1760. 

Visitt in company with Samuel Eastburn, to Long Island, Rhode 
Island, Boston, ^c. — Remarks on the slave trade at JVewport; also on 
loiterits. — Some observations on the island of JVantuckei. 

4th mo. 1760. Having, for some time past, felt a 
* May not vaccination be considered that innocent means? 



84 THEJOURNALOF 

sympathy in my mind with friends eastward, I opened my 
concern in our monthly meeting; and, obtaining a certifi- 
cate, set forward on the seventeenth of this month, in com- 
pany with my beloved friend Samuel Eastburn. We had 
meetings at Woodbridge, Rahaway, and Plainfield; and 
were at their monthly meeting of ministers and elders in 
Rahaway. We labored under some discoragement; but 
through the invisible power of truth, our visit was made 
reviving to the lowly-minded, with whom I felt a near unity 
of spirit, being much reduced in my mind. We passed 
on, and visited most of the meetings on Long Island. It 
was my concern, from day to day, to say neither more nor 
less than what the spirit of truth opened in me, being 
jealous over myself, lest I should say anything to make my 
testimony look agreeable to that mind in people, which is 
not in pure obedience to the cross of Christ. 

The spring of the ministry was often low; and, throughthe 
subjecting power of truth, we were kept low with it; from 
place to place, they whose hearts were truly concerned for 
the cause of Christ, appeared to be comforted in our labors; 
and though it was in general a time of abasement of the 
creature, yet, through His goodness who is a helper of the 
poor, we liad some truly edifying seasons both in meetings, 
and in families where we tarried: sometimes we found 
strength to labor earnestly with the unfaithful, especially 
with those whose station in families, or in \\\e society, was 
such, that their example had a powerful tendency to open 
the way for others to go aside, from the purity and sound- 
ness of the blessed truth. 

At Jericho, on Long Island, I wrote home as follows: 

24th of the 4th month, 1760. 

" Dearly beloved wife! 

" We are favored with health; have been at sundry 
meetings in East Jersey, and on this island. My' mind 
hath been much in an inward, watchful frame, since I left 
thee, greatl}' desiring that our proceedings maybe singly in 
the will of our heavenly Father. 

" As the present appearance of things is not joyous, I 



jr H N W L M A N • 85 

have been much shut up from outward cheerfulness, remem- 
bering that promise; " Then shalt thou delight thyself in 
the Lord;" — as this, from day to day, has been revived 
in my memory, I have considered that his internal presence 
in our minds, is a delight of all others the most pure; and 
that the honest-hearted not only delight in this, but in the 
effect of it upon them. He regards the helpless and dis- 
tressed, and reveals his love to his children under affliction, 
who delight in beholding his benevt^lence, and in feeling 
divine charity moving in them. Of this I may speak a 
little; for though since I left you, I have often an engaging 
love and affection towards thee and my daughter, and 
friends about home, and going out at this time, when sick- 
ness is so great amongst you, is a trial upon me; yet I often 
remember there are many widows and fatherless, many who 
have poor tutors, many who have evil examples before 
them, and many whose minds are in captivity; for whos< 
sake my heart is, at times, moved with compassion; so 
that J feel my mind resigned to leave you for a season, to 
exercise that gift which the Lord hath bestowed on me; 
which though small compared with some, yet in this I re- 
joice, that I feel love unfeigned towards my fellow crea- 
tures. I recommend you to the Almighty, who I trust 
cares for you; and under a sense of his heavenly |ove, 
remain, '* Thy loving husband, 

We crossed from the east end of Long Island to New 
London, about thirty miles, in a large open boat; while we 
were out, the wind rising high, the waves several times 
beat over us, so diat to me it appeared dangerous; but my 
mind was at that time turned to Him: who made and governs 
the deep, and my life was resigned to Him; as he was mer- 
cifully pleased to preserve us, I had fresh occasion to con- 
sider every day, as a day lent to me; and felt a renewed 
engagement to devote my time, and all I had, to Him who 
gave it. 

We had five meetings in Narraganset; and went thence 
to Newport on Rhode Island. Our gracious Father preserv- 
ed us in an humble dependence on him through deep exer-? 
8 



86 THEJOURNALOP 

cises, that were mortifying to the creaturely will. In sever- 
al families in the country where we lodged, 1 felt an engage- 
ment on my mind to have a conference with them in 
private, concerning their slaves; and, through divine 
aid, I was favored to give up thereto. Though in this 
concern, I differ from many, whose service in travelling 
is, I believe, greater than mine; yet 1 do not think hardly 
of them for omitting it; I do not repine at having so un- 
pleasant a task assigned me, but look with awfulness to 
Him, who appoints to his servants their respective em- 
ployments, and is good to all who serve Him sincerely. 

We got to Newport in the evening; and on the next day 
visited two sick persons, with whom we bad comfortable 
sittings, and in the afternoon attended the burial of a friend. 
The next day we were at meetings at Newport, in the fore- 
noon and afternoon; the spring of tlie ministry was opened, 
and strength was given to declare the Word of Life to the 
people. 

The day following we went on our journey; but ihe 
great number of slaves in these parts, and the continuance 
of that trade from thence to Guinea, made a deep impres- 
sion on me; and my cries were often put up to my heav- 
enly Father in secret, that He would enable me to discharge 
my duty faithfully, in such way as He might be pleased to 
point out to me. 

W^e look Swansea, Freetown, and Tanton, in our way 
to Boston; where also we had a meeting; our exercise 
was deep, and the love of truth prevailed; for which I bless 
tne Lord. We went eastward about eighty miles beyond 
Boston, taking meetings, and were in a good degree pre- 
served in an humble dependance on that arm which drew 
j)S out; and though we had some hard labor with the dis- 
obedient, by laying things home and close to such as were 
stout against the truth; yet through the goodness of God, 
we had at times to partake of heavenly comfort with those 
who were meek, and were often favored to part with fiiends 
in the nearness of true gospel fellowship. We returned to 
Boston, and had another comfortable opportunity with 
friends there; and thence rode back a day's journey east- 
ward of Boston. Our guide being a heavy man, and the 



jf H is^ VV L M A N . 87 

weather hot, my companion and I expressed our freedom 
to go on without him; to which he consented, and we re- 
spectfully took our leave of him: this we did, as behev- 
ing the journey would have been hard to him and his horse. 

In visiting the meetings in those parts, we were measur- 
ably baptized into a feeling of the state of the society; and 
in bowedness of spirit went to the yeari}- meeting at New- 
port; where we met with John Storer from England, 
Ehzabeth Shipley, Ann Gaunt, Hannah Foster, and Mercy 
E-edman, from our parts; all ministers of the gospel, of 
whose company I was glad. Understanding^ that a large 
number of slaves had been imported from Africa into that 
town, and were then on sale by a member of our society, 
my appetite failed, and I grew outwardly weak, and had 
■a feeling of the condition of Habakkuk, as thus express- 
ed: '^ When 1 heard my belly tremble, my lips quivered, 
I trembled in myself, that I might rest in the day of 
trouble." I had many cogitations, and was sorely dis- 
tressed. 1 was desirous that friends might petition the 
legislature, to use their endeavors to discourage the future 
importation of slaves; for I sav/ that this trade was a great 
evil, and tended to multiply troubles, and to bring distresses 
on the people for whose welfare my heart was deeply con- 
cerned. But I perceived several difficulties in regard to 
petitioning and such was the exercise of my mind that 1 
thought of endeavoring to get an opportunity to speak a 
few words in the House of Assembly, then sitting intov;n. 

This exercise came upon me in the afternoon, on the 
second day of the yearly meeting, and on going to bed, I got 
no sleep till my mind was wholly resigned thereto. In 
the morning I enquired of a friend how long the As- 
sembly v\'as hkely to continue sitting, who told me, it 
was expected to be prorogued that day or the next. As 
I was desirous to attend the business of the meeting, and 
perceived the Assembly was likely to separate before the 
business was over; after considerable exercise, humbly 
seeking to the Lord for instruction, my mind settled to at- 
tend on the business of the meeting; on the last day of 
which, I had prepared a short essay of a petition to be 
presented to the legislature, if way opened. And being 



88 tHEJOURNALOr 

informed that there were some appointed by that yearly 
meeting, to speak with those in authority, on cases relating 
to the society, I opened my mind to several of them, and 
shewed them the essay I had made; and afterwards I 
opened the case in the meeting for business, in substance 
as follows: 

'^ I have been under a concern for some time, on ac- 
count of the great number of slaves which are imported 
into this colony. I am aware that it is a lender point to 
speak to, but apprehend I am not clear in the sight of 
Heaven, without doing so. I have prepared an essay of 
a petition to oe presented to the legislature, if way open; 
and what I have to propose to this meeting is, that some 
friends mav be named to withdraw and look over it, and 
report whether they believe it suitable to be read in th^ 
meeting. Tf they should think well of reading it, it will 
remain for the meeting, to consider, whether to take any 
further notice of it, as a meeting, or not." After a short 
conference some friends went out, and looking over it, ex- 
pressed their willingness to have it read; which being done, 
many expressed their unity with the proposal; and some 
signified, that to have the subjects of the petition enlarged 
upon, and signed out of meeting by such as were free, 
would be more suitable than to doit there. Though I ex- 
pected at first, that if it was done it would be in that way; 
yet such was the exercise of my mind, that to move it in 
the hearing of friends when assembled, appeared to me as 
a duty; for my heart yearned towards the inhabitants of 
these parts; believing that by this trade there had been an 
increase of inquietude amongst them, and way had been 
made for the spreading of a spirit opposite to that meek- 
ness and humility, which is a sure resting place for the 
soul: and that the continuance of this trade, would not only 
render their healing more difficult, but would increase their 
malady. 

Having proceeded thus far, I felt easy to leave the essay 
amongst friends, for them to proceed in it as they believed 
best. And now an exercise revived on my mind in rela- 
tion to lotteries, which were common in those parts. I 
had mentioned the subject in a former sitting of this meet- 



J H N W L M A N . 89 

Ing, when arguments were used iii favor of friends being 
held excused, who were only concerned in such lotteries 
as were agreeable to law. And now on moving it again, it 
was opposed as before; but the hearts of some solid friends 
appeared to be united to discourage the practice amongst 
their members; and the matter was zealously handled by 
some on both sides. In this debate it appeared very clear 
to me, that the spirit of lotteries was a spirit of selfishness, 
u^hich tended to confuse and darken the understanding; 
and that pleading for it in our meetings, which were set 
apart for the Lord's work, was not right. In the heat of 
zeal, I made reply to what an ancient friend said, and when 
I sat down, I saw that my words were not enough season- 
ed with charity. After this, I spoke no more on the sub- 
ject. At length a minute was made; a copy of which was 
to be sent to their several quarterly meetings, inciting friends 
to labor to discourage the practice amongst all professing 
with us. 

Some time after this minute was made, I remained un- 
easy wiih the manner of my speaking to the ancient friend, 
and could not see my way clear to conceal my uneasiness, 
though I was concerned that I might say nothing to weak- 
en the cause in which 1 had labored. After some close 
exercise and hearty repentance, for not having attended 
closely to the safe guide, I stood up, and reciting the pas- 
sage, acquainted friends, that though I durst not go frani 
what I had said as to the matter, yet I was uneasy with 
the manner of my speaking, believing milder language'would 
have been better. As this was uttered in some degree oi 
creaturely abasement after a warm debate, it appeared to 
have a good savor amongst us. 

The yearly meeting being now over, there yet remained 
on my mind a secret, though heavy exercise, iu regard to 
some leading active members about Newport, who were in 
the practice of keeping slaves. This I mentioned to two 
ancient friends who came out of the, country, and proposed 
to them, if way opened, to have some conversation with 
those members. One of them and I, having consulted one 
of the most noted elders who had slaves, he, in a respect- 
ful manner, encourage,<i me to proce&d to char mvseif qC 

8* 



90 THEJOURNALOF 

what lay upon me. Near the beginning of the yearly meet- 
ing, I had had a private conference with this said elder and 
his wife, concerning their slaves, so that the way seemed clear 
to me, to advise with him about the manner of proceeding. 
I told him, I was free to have a conference with them al- 
together in a private house; or if he thought they would 
take it unkind to be asked to come together, and to be 
spoken with in the hearing of one another, I was free to 
spend some time amongst them, and to visit them all in 
their own houses. He expressed his liking to the first pro- 
posal, not doubting their willingness to come together; and 
as 1 proposed a visit to only ministers, elders, and over- 
seers, he named some others, whom he desired might also 
be present. A careful messenger being wanted to acquaint 
them in a proper manner, he offered to go to all their 
houses to open the matter to them; and did so. About 
the eighth hour the next morning, we met in the meeting- 
house chamber, the last-mentioned country friend, my com- 
panion, and John Storer being with us. After a short 
time of retirement, I acquainted them with the steps I had 
taken in procuring that meeting, and opened the concern I 
was under, and we then proceeded to a free conference up- 
on the subject. INIy exercise was heavy, and I was deep- 
ly bowed in spirit before the Lord, who was pleased to fa- 
vor with the seasoning virtue of truth, which wrought a 
tenderness amongst us; and the subject was mutually han- 
dled in a calm and peaceable spirit. At length, feeling 
ray mind released from the burden which I had been under> 
1 took my leave of them, in a good degree of satisfaction; 
and by the tenderness they manifested in regard to the prac- 
tice, and the concern several of them expressed in relation to 
the manner of disposing of their negroes after their de- 
cease, I believed that a good exercise was spreading 
amongst them; and I am humbly thankful to God who sup- 
ported my mind, and preserved me in a good degree of re- 
signation through these trials. 

Thou who sometimes travellest in the work of the min- 
istry, and art made very welcome by thy friends, seest many 
tokens of their satisfaction in having thee for their guest. 
It is good for thee to dwell deep, that thou mayest feel and 



JOHNWOOLMAN. ^l 

understand the spirits of people. If we believe truth points 
towards a conference on some subjects, in a private way, 
it is needful for us to take heed that their kindness, their 
freedom and affability, do not hinder us from the Lord's 
work. I have experienced, that in the midst of kindness 
and smooth conduct to speak close and home to them who 
entertain us, on points that relate to outward interest, is 
hard labor. Sometim.es, w^hen I have felt truth lead to- 
wards it, I have found myself disqualified by a superficial 
friendship; and as the sense thereof hath abased me, and 
my cries have been to the Lord, so I have been humbled 
and made content to appear weak, or as a fool for his sake; 
and thus a door hath been opened to enter upon it. To 
attempt to do the Lord's work in our own way, and to 
speak of that which is the burden of the word, in a way 
easy to the natural part, doth not reach the bottom of the 
disorder. To see the failings of our friends, and think hard 
of them, without opening that which we ought to open, and 
still carry a face of friendship, tends to undermine the 
foundation of true unity. The office of a minister of 
Christ is weighty. And they who now go forth as watch- 
men, have need to be steadily on their guard against the 
snares of prosperity, and an outside friendship. 

After the yearly meeting, we were at meetings at New- 
town, Cushnet, Long Plain, Rochester, and Dartmouth. 
From thence we sailed for Nantucket, in company with 
Ann Gaunt, Mercy Redman, and several other friends. 
The wind being slack, we only reached Tarpawling Cove 
the first day; where, going on shore, we found room in a 
public-house, and beds for a few of us; the rest slept on 
the floor. We went on board again about break of day; 
and though the wind was small, we were favored to come 
within about four miles of Nantucket; and then about ten 
of us got into our boat, and rowed to the harbor before 
dark; a large boat went off and brought in the rest of the 
passengers about midnight. The next day but one was 
their yearly meeting, which held four days; the last of 
which was their monthly meeting for business. We had 
a laborious time amongst them; our minds v;rere closely 
exercised, and I beheve it was a time of great searching 



9^ THEJOURNALOF 

of heart. The longer I was on the island, the more I be- 
came sensible that there was a considerable number of 
valuable friends there, though an evil spirit, tending to 
strife, had been at work amongst them. 1 was cautious 
of making any visits except as my mind was particularly 
drawn to them; and in that way we had some sittings in 
friends' houses, where the heavenly wing was at times 
spread over us, to our mutual comfort. My beloved 
companion had very acceptable service on this island. 

When meeting was over, we all agreed to sail the next 
day if the weather was suitable, and we were well; and 
being called up the latter part of the night, about fifty of 
us went on board a vessel; bui the wind changing, the 
seamen thought best to stay in the harbor till it altered; so 
we returned on shore. Feeling clear as to any further 
visits, I spent my time in our chamber chiefly alone; and 
after some hours, my Iieart being filled with the spirit of 
supplication, my prayers and tears were poured out before 
my Heavenly Father, t"or his help and instruction in the 
manifold difficulties which attended me in life. While I 
was waiting upon the Lord, there came a messenger from 
the women friends who lodged at another house, desiring 
to confer with us about appointing a meeting, which to me 
appeared weighty, as we had been at so many before; but 
after a short conference, and advising with some elderly 
friends, a meeting was appointed, in which -the friend who 
first moved it, and who had been much shut up before, 
was largely opened in the love of the gospel. The next 
morning, about break of day, going again on board the 
vessel, we reached Falmouth on the Main before night, 
where our horses being brought, we proceeded towards 
Sandwich quarterly meeting. 

Being two days in going to Nantucket, and having been 
there once before, I observed many shoals in their bay, 
which make sailing more dangerous, especially in stormy 
nights; also, that a great shoal, which encloses their har- 
bor, prevents the entrance of sloops, except when the tide 
is up; waiting without for the rising of the tide, is 
sometimes hazardous in storms: and by waiting within, 
they sometimes miss a fair wind. I took notice, that there 



JOHN WOOL MAN. D§ 

was on that small island a great number of inhabitants, and 
the soil not very fertile: the timber being so gone, that for 
vessels, fences, and firewood, they depend chiefly on buy- 
ing from the Main; for the coast whereof, with most of 
their other expenses, they depend principally upon the 
whale fishery. I considered, that as towns grew larger, 
and lands near navigable waters were more cleared, it 
would require more labor to get timber and wood. I un- 
derstood that the whales being much hunted, and sometimes 
wounded and not killed, grew more shy and difficult to 
come at. I considered that the formation of the earth, 
the seas, the islands, bays, and rivers, the motions of the 
winds, and great waters, which cause bars and shoals in 
particular places, were all the works of Him who is per- 
fect wisdom and goodness; and as people attend to his 
heavenly instruction, and put their trust in Him, He pro- 
vides for them in all parts, where he gives them a being, 
and as in this visit to ihese people, I felt a strong desire 
for their firm establishment on the sure foundation: besides 
what was said more publicly, I was concerned to speak 
with the women friends, in their monthly meeting of busi- 
ness, many being present; and in the fresh spring of pure 
love, to open before them the advantage, both inwardly and 
outwardly, of attending singly to the pure guidance of the 
Holy Spirit, and therein to educate their children in true 
humility, and the disuse of all superfluities. I reminded 
them of the difficulties their husbands and sons were fre- 
quently exposed to at sea; and that the more plain and 
simple their way of living was, the less need there would 
be of running great hazards to support them; I also en- 
couraged the young women to continue their neat decent 
way of attending themselves on the affairs of the house; 
shewing, as the w^ay opened, that where people were truly 
humble, used themselves to business, and were content vi'ith 
a plain way of life, they had ever had more true peace and 
calmness of mind, than they w^ho, aspiring to greatness and 
outward show, have grasped hard for an income to support 
themselves therein. And as I observed they had few or 
no slaves, I had to encourage them to be content without 
themj making mention of the numerous troubles and vex* 



^A tHEJOURNALOi* 

ations, which frequently attended the minds of people, who 
depend on slaves to do their labor. 

We attended the quartlerly meeting at Sandwich, in com- 
pany with Ann Gaunt and Mercy Redman, which was pre- 
ceded by a monthly meeting; and in the whole held three 
clays. We were in various ways exercised amongst them, 
in gospel love, according to the several gifts bestowed on 
us; and were at times overshadowed with the virtue of truth, 
to the comfort of the sincere, and stirring up of the negli- 
gent. Here we parted with Ann and INIercy, and went to 
Rhode Island, taking one meeting in our way, which was 
a satisfactory ticne. Reaching Newport the evening before 
their quarterly meeting, we attended it; and after that, had 
a meeting wiih our young people, separated from those of 
other societies. We went through much labor in tliis town; 
and now, in taking leave of it, though I felt close inward 
exercise to the last, I found inward peace; and was in 
some degree comforted in a belief, that a good number re- 
main in that place who retain a sense of truth; and that 
there are some young people attentive to the voice of the 
heavenly Shepherd. The last meeting, in which friends 
from the several parts of the quarter came together, was a 
select meeting; and tiirough the renewed manifestation of 
the Father's love, the hearts of the sincere were united to- 
gether. 

The poverty of spirit and inward weakness, with 
which I was much tried the forepart of this journey, has 
of late appeared to me a dispansation of kindness. 
Appointing meetings never appeared more weighty to 
me; and I was led into a deep search, whether in all 
things my mind was resigned to tlie will of God; often 
querying with myself, what should be the cause of such in- 
ward poverty; and greatly desiring that no secret reserve in 
my heart might hinder my access to the Divine fountain. 
In these humbling times I was made watchful, and excit- 
ed to attend to the secret movings of the heavenly prin- 
ciple in my mind, wiiich prepared the way to some duties, 
that, in more easy and prosperous times, as to the outward, 
1 believe 1 should have beeu in danger of omitting. 



JOHN W L 31 A N . 95. 

From Newport we went to Greenwich, Shanticut, and 
Warwick; and were helped to labor amongst friends in 
the love of our gracious Redeemer. Afterwards, accom- 
panied by our friend John Casey from Newport, we rode 
through Connecticut to Oblong, visited the meetings in 
those parts, and thence proceeded to the quarterly meet- 
ing at Ryewoods. Through the gracious extendings of 
divine help, we had some seasoning opportunities in those 
places. We also visited friends at New York and Flush- 
ing; and thence to Rahaway. Here our roads parting, I 
took leave of my beloved companion and true yokemate 
Samuel Eastburn; and reached home the lOtli of 8th month, 
where I found my family well. For the favors and pro- 
tection of the Lord, both inward and outward, extended to 
me in this journey, my heart is humbled in grateful ac- 
knowledgments; and I find renewed desires to dwell and 
wr.lk in resignedness before Him, 



CHAPTER VIII. 
1761.— 1762. 

Visits Pennsylvania, Shrewsbury,' and Squan. — Publishes the sec- 
ond part of his Considerations on keeping JVegroes. — The grounds of 
his appearing in some respects singular in his dress. — Visit to the 
families of friends of Ancocas and Mount Holly meetings. — Visits to 
the Indians at Wehaloosing on the river Susquehannah. 

Having felt my mind drawn towards a visit to a lew 
meetings in Pennsylvania, I was very desirous to be rightly 
instructed as to the time of setting ofF. On the tenth 
of fifth month, 1761, being the first day of the week, I 
went to Haddonfield meeting, concluding to seek for heav- 
enly instruction, and come home, or go on, as I might 
then believe best for me; and there through the springing 
up of pure love, I felt encouragement, and so crossed the 
river. In this visit I was at two quarterly and three month- 
ly meetings; and in the love of truth, I felt my way open 
to labor with some noted friends who kept negroes. As I 
was favored to keep to the root, and endeavor to discharge 



96 THEJOURNALOF 

what I believed was required of me, I found inward peace 
therein, from time to time; and thankfulness of heart to the 
Lord, who was graciously pleased to be a guide to me. 

8th mo. 1761. Having felt drawings in my mind to 
visit friends in and about Shrewsbury, I went there, and 
was at their monthly meeting, and their first-day meeting; 
I had also a meeting at Squan, and another at Squan- 
quam; and as way opened, had conversation with some 
noted friends concerning their slaves. I returned home 
in a thankful sense of the goodness of the Lord. 

From the concern I felt growing in me for some 
years, 1 wrote part the second of a work entitled *' con- 
siderations on keeping Negroes,'' which was printed this 
year, 1762. When the overseers of the press had done 
with it, they offered to get a number printed, to be paid 
for out of the yearly meeting's stock, to be given away; 
but I being most easy to publish it at my own expense, and 
offering my reasons, they appeared satisfied. 

This stock is the contribution of the members of our 
religious society in general, among whom are some who 
keep negroes; and being inclined to continue them in 
slavery, are not likely to be satisfied with such books be- 
ing spread among a people, especially at their own expense, 
many of whose slaves are taught to read; and such, re- 
ceiving them as a gift, often conceal them. But as they 
who make a purcliase, generally buy that which they have 
a mind for, I believed it best to sell them; expecting by 
that means they would more generally be read with atten- 
tion. Advertisements were signed by order of the over- 
seers of the press, and directed to be read in the monthly 
meetings of business within our own yearly meeting, in- 
forming where the books were, and that the price was no 
more than the cost of printing and binding them. Many 
were taken off in our parts; some I sent to Virginia, some 
to New York, seme to my acquaintance at Newport, and 
some I kept, intending to give part of them away, where 
there appeared a prospect o service. 

In my youth I was used to hard labor; and though I 
was middling healthy, yet my nature was not fitted to 
endure so^much as many others. Being often weary, I was 



J H N W O L M A N . 97 

|?»repared to sympathize wilb those whose circumstances in 
life, as free men, required constant labor to answer the de* 
mands of liieir creditors; as well as with others under op- 
pression. In tfie L'.iieasifiess -of hody, wiiich I have many 
times felt by too much labor, not as a forced but a voluntary 
oppression^ I have often been excited to think on the original 
cause of that oppression, which is imposed on many in (he 
world. The laiter part of the time wherein I labored on our 
plantation, my lieart, through the fresh visitations of heavenly 
love, being often tender; and my leisure tinie being fiequent- 
ly spent in reading the life and doctrines of our blessed Re- 
deemer, the account of the sufferings of martyrs, and the 
f^istory of the first rise of our society; — a belief was gradu- 
ally settled in my mind, that if such as had great states, 
generally lived in that humility and plainness which belong 
to a christian life, and laid much easier rents and interests 
on their lands and monies, and thus led the way to a right 
u-se of things, so great a number of j)eople might be employ- 
ed in things useful, that labor both for men and other crea- 
tures would need to be no more than an agreeable employ; 
and divers branches of business, which serve chiefly to 
please the natural inclinations of our minds, and which at 
present seem necessary to circulate that wealth which some 
gather, might, in this way of pure wisdom, be discontinued. 
As I have thus considered these things, a query at times 
hath arisen: Do I, in all my proceedings, keep to that use 
of things which is agrfeable to universal righteousness.^ 
And tlien there haih some degree of sadness at times 
come over me; because I accustomed myself to some 
chings, wliich have occasioned more labor than 1 believe 
Divine wisdom intended for us. 

From my early acquaintance with truth, I have often 
felt an inward distress, occasioned by the striving of a spirit 
in me, against the operation of the heavenly principle;: 
and in this state I have been affected with a sense of my 
own wretchedness; and in a mourning condition have 
felt earnest longings for that Divine help, which brings the 
soul into true liberty. Sometimes on retiring into ])rivate 
places, the spirit of supplication hath been given me; and 

9 



98 THEJOURNALOF 

under an heavenly covering, I hfive asked my gracious 
Faiher, to give me a heart iu all things lesigried to the di- 
rection of his wisdom; in littering language like this, the 
thoughts of my wearing hais and garuieuts dyed wiih a 
dye hurtful to them, have made lasting impression on me. 

In visiting people of note in the society wlio liad slaves, 
and laboring witli them in brotherly love on that acccimt, 
] have seen, and the sight lias afleciedme, that a conformi- 
ty to some customs, distinguishable from pure wisdom, has 
entangled many; and tliat the desire of gain to support 
these cusioms, has greatly opposed tlie work of irmh. 
Sometimes, when the prosj^ect of the work before me has 
been such that in bowedness of spirit, 1 have been drawn 
into retired places, and lia\e besought the Lord with tet.rs 
that he would take me wholly under his direction, and 
show me the way in \\hi( h 1 ought to walk; it hath revived 
with strength of conviction, that if 1 wouhl be his faithful 
servaul, 1 must in all things attend to his wisdouj, and be 
teachable; and so cease from all customs contrary thereto, 
li(>v\ ever used among religious people. 

As He is the perfection of power, of wisdom, and of 
gc(K!ness; so 1 believe be h; th |)rovi(]ed, that so uiuch la- 
bor bliall be necessary for men's support iu this world, as 
woi.id, i cing I'iglitly di\ ided, be a suitable employuient of 
their liu ( ; and that we cannot go into superfluities, or 
gra^p aft< r wealth in r».T,a) contrary to his" wisdom, with- 
out Jia i g connexion with <ome degree of oppiession, and 
\vi h that spirit which leads to self-exaltation and strife, and 
uhit h frequently biiugs chlauiities on countries, by parlies 
contending about their claims. 

Being thus fully convinced, and feeling an increasing de- 
sire to live in the sf)irit of peace; 1 have often been sor- 
row 'ully affected with thinkiiig on the unquiet spirit in which 
wars are generally carried on, a.:d with the miseries of many 
of my fellow creatures engaged therein; some suddenly de- 
stroyed; ( nie wouuiled, and after much pain remaining 
cripples; seme de|)rived of all their o'jlvv:.rd substance, and 
reduced to want; and soi!;e carried into captivity. Think- 
ing often on these thir;gs, the use of hats and gar.) ents dyed 
with a dye hurtful to them, and wearing more clothes in 



J H N W L M A N , 99 

summer than are nsetVi], grew more uneasy to me; believ- 
ing them to be customs uliic.h Jiave not their foundation in 
pure wisdom. The apprehension of being singular fjom 
my beloved friends, was a sirait upon me; and thus I con- 
tir.ued in the use of some ihins^s contrary to mj' judgment. 

On tlie 31st of5:h mo. 17G1, I was taken ill of a fever; 
and aft<^r it bad continued near a week, 1 was in great dis- 
tress of body. One day there Vv^as a cry raised in me, 
that I might understand the cause of my affliction, and 
im()iove under it; and my conformity to some customs, 
which 1 believed were not right, was brought to my re- 
membrance. In the continuance of ibis exei'cise, J felt 
all the powers in ms yield themselves up into the hands of 
Him who gave me being; and was nuide thankful that Hs 
had taken Ijoid of me by his chastisements. Feeling the 
necessity of further purifying, there was now no desire in 
me for health, until the design of my correction was an- 
swered. Tlius I lay in abasement and brokenness of 
S'jU'it, and as I felt a sinking^ down into a calm resiiination, 
so I felt, as in an instant, an inward healing in my nature; 
and from that lime forward I 2;re.v better. 

Though my mind wa^ thus sealed in relation to hurt- 
ful dyes, T felt easy to wear my garments heretofore made; 
and continued to do so about nine months. Then I 
thouglit of getting a hat the natural color of the fur; but 
the apprehension of being looked upon as one affecting 
singularity, felt uneasy to me. Here I had occasion to 
consider that things, though small in th3mselves, being 
clearly enjoined by Divine authority, beco;ne great t'lings 
to us; and 1 trusted that the Lord would support rn^ in 
the trials that n ij,ht attend singularity, so long as singularity 
was only for bis sake. On this account, 1 was under close 
exercise of mind in the time of our general spring meeting 
1762, greatly desiring to be rightly directed; when being, 
deeply bowed in spirit before the Lord, I was made will- 
ing to submit to what I apprehended v/as required of 
me; and when I returned home, 2:ot a hat of the natural 
color of the fur. 

In attending meetings, this singularity was a trial to me, 
and more especially at this time, as white hats were used 



100 THE JOURNAL OF 

by some who were fond of following the changeable modes 
of dress; and as some friends, who knew not from what 
motives 1 \vore il, grew siiy of me, I felt my way for a 
time shut up in the exercise of ilie ministry. In this con- 
dition, my mind being turned toward my Heavenly Fath- 
er, with fervent cries that I might be preserved to walk 
before him in the meekness of wisdom, my heart was ofter> 
tender in meetings; and 1 felt an inward consolation,, which 
to me was very precious under these difficulties. 

I had several dyed garments fit for use, which I believ- 
ed it best to wear, till I had occasion for new ones. 
Some friends were apprehensive, that my wearing such a 
hat savored of an affected singularity: those who spoke 
with me m a friendly way, I generally informed, in a few 
words, that I believed my wearing it, v/as not in my own 
will. I had at times been sensible, that a superficial 
friendship had been dangerous to me; and many friends 
being now uneasy with me, I had an inclination to acquaint 
gome with the manner of my being led into these things; 
yet, upon a deeper thought, I was for a time most easy to 
omit it, believing the present dispensation was profitable;, 
and trusting, that if I kept n)y place, the Lord in his own 
time would open the hearts of friends towards oie. I 
have since had cause to admire his goodness and loving 
kindness, in leading about and instructing me, and in open- 
ing and enlarging my heart in some of our meetings. 

In the Hill month this year, feeling an engagement of 
mind to visit some families in Mansfield, I joined my be- 
loved friend Benjamin Jones, and we spent a few days to- 
gether in that service. In the 2nd month, 1763, I joined 
in company with Elizabeth Smith and Mary Noble, in a 
visit to the families of friends at Ancocas. In both these 
visits, through the baptizing powder of truth, the sincere la-^ 
borers were often comforted, and the hearts of friends 
opened to receive us. In the 4th month following, I ac-- 
companied some friends in a visit to the families of friends- 
in Mount Holly; during this visit my mind was often drawQ 
into an inward awfulness, wherein strong desires were rais-- 
ed for the everlasting welfare of my fellow-creatures; and 
through the kindness of our Heavenly Father, our hearta 



JOHN WOOL MAN. 101 

were at times enlarged, and friends were invited, in the 
flovvings of Divine love, to attend to that which would set- 
tle them on the sure foundation. 

Having for many years fell love in my heart towards the 
natives of this land, who dwell far back in the wilder- 
ness, whose ancestors were formerly the owners and pos- 
sessors of the land where we dwell; and who for a small 
consideration, assigned their inheritance to us; and being 
at Phihidelphia in the 8ih month, 1761, on a visit to 
some friends who had slaves, I fell in company with 
some of those natives who lived on the east branch 
of the river Susquehannah, at an Indian town called 
Wehaloosing, two hundred utiles from Philadelpliia. In 
conversation with them by an interpreter, as also by 
observations on their counienances and conduct, I believed 
some of them were measurably acquainted with that Divine 
power which subjects the rough and fiovvard will of the crea- 
ture. At times 1 felt inward drawings towards a visit to that 
place; which I mentioned to none except my dear wife, un- 
til it came to some ripeness. In the winter of 1762, 1 laid 
my prospects before my friends, at our monthly and quarter- 
ly and afterwards at our general spring meeting; and hav- 
ing the unity of friends, and being thoughtful about an In- 
dian pilot, there came a man and three women from a little 
beyond that town to Philadelpliia, on business. Being in- 
formed thereof by letter, I met them in town in the 5th 
month, 1763; and after some conversation, finding they 
were sober people, I, with the concurrence of friends in 
that place, agreed to join them as companions in their re- 
turn; and we appointed to meet at Samuel Foulk's, at 
Richland in Bucks county, on the 7th of 6lh month. Now 
as this visit felt weigiily, and was performed at a time when 
travelling ajipeared perilous, so the dispensations of Divine 
Providence in preparing my mind for it have been memor- 
able; and I believe it good for me to give some account 
thereof. 

After I had given up to go, the thoughts of the journey 
were often attended with unusual sadness; at vvhicli times, 
my heart was frequently turned to the Lord with inward 
breathings for his heavenly support, that I mi^hl not fail to 

9* 



102 THE JOURNAL OP 

follow him wheresoever He miglit lead me. Being at oor 
youth's meeiing at Chesterfield, about a week before the? 
time I expected to set off, I was (here led to speak on that 
prayer of our Redeemer to the Father: "• I pray not that 
thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou 
shoiildesi keej) them from the evil." And in attending to 
the pure openings of truth, I h;id to mention what He else- 
where said [Q his Father; '^ I know that ihou hearest me 
at all times:" so as some of his follo\^ ers kept their |)lacesy 
and as his |.rayer was granted, it followed necessarily that 
they were kept from evil: and as some of those met with 
great hard.ships and afflictions in this worhl, and at last suf- 
fered death by cruel men; so it appears, that whatsoever 
befalls men, while they live in pure obedience to God, cer- 
tainly works for their good, and may not be considered an 
evil as it relates to them. As J spake oji ibis subject, my 
heart was much tendered, and great awfulness cau)e over me.. 
On the first day of the week, being at our own afternoon- 
meeiing, and wy heart being enlarged in love, 1 was ledi 
to speak on the care and [protection of the Lord over his 
people, and to make mcniion of that pas.-age whci'e a band 
of Syrians who weie endeavoring to lake captive the 
prophet, were disappointed; and how the psalmist said, 
*' tl>e angel of the Lord eucampeth round about them ti at 
fear Him." — Thus, in true love and tenderness, T parted 
from friends, expecting the next morninir; to proceed on 
my journey- Being weary I went early to bed. After I 
had been asleep a short time, 1 was awoke by a man call- 
ing nt my door; and inviting me to ineel some friend:-: at 
a public house in our town, who came from Philadelphia 
so late, that friends were generally gone to bed. These 
friends informed me, that an express had arrived the last 
morning from Pittsburg, and brought news that the Indians 
had taken a fort from the English westward, and had slain 
and scalped some English people near the said Pittsburg, 
and in divers places. Some elderly fr ends in Philadelphia^ 
knovi'ing the time of my intending to set off, had conferred 
together, and thonght good to inform me of these things, 
before 1 left home, ihai 1 might consider them, and pro- 
ceed as I believed best. Going to bed again, I told not 



JOHN WOOL MAN. 103 

my wife till morning. My heart was turned to the Lord 
for l)is heavenly inslruciion; and it was an humbling time to 
me. When 1 told my dear wife, she appeared to be deep- 
ly concerned about it; but in a few hours time, my mind 
becaiue settled in a belief that it was my duty to proceed 
on my journey; and she bore it with a good degree of re- 
signaiion. In this conflict of spirit there were great search- 
ings of heart, and strong cries to the Lord, that no moiion 
miglit in the least degree be attended to, but that of the 
pure spirit of truth. 

The subjects before-mentioned, on which I had so lately 
spoken in public, w^ere now fresh before me; and I was 
brought inwardly to commit myself to the Lord, to be dis- 
posed of as He saw best. I took leave of my family and 
neighbors, in much bowedness of spirit, and went to our 
monthly meeting at Burlington. After taking leave of 
friends there, 1 crossed the rirer, accompanied by my 
friends Isreel and John Pemberton; and parting the next 
moining with Israel, John bore me company to Samuel 
Foulk's; where I met the before-uientioned Indians, and 
we were glad to see each other. Here my friend Benja- 
min Parvin met me, and proposed joining me as a com- 
panion, w^e had before exchanged some letters on the sub- 
ject; and now I had a sharp trial on his account; for as the 
journey appeared perilous, I thouglit if he went chiefly to 
bear me company, and w^e should be taken captive, my 
having been the means of drawing him into these difficul- 
ties, would add to my own afflictions; so I told hiin my 
mind freely, and let him know that I was resigned to go 
alone; but after all, if he really believed it to be his duty 
to go on, I believed his company would be very comfort- 
able to me. It was indeed a time of deep exercise, and 
Benjamin appeared to be so fastened to the visit, that he 
could not be easy to leave me; so we went on, accompa- 
nied by our friends John Pemberton, and William Light- 
foot of Pikeland; we lodged at Bethlehem; and there part- 
ing with John, William and we went forward on the 9th 
of the 6th month, and got lodging on the floor of a house, 
about five miles from Fort Allen. Here we parted with 
William: and at this place we met with an Indian trader, 



104 TIIK JOURNAL OF 

lately come from Wioniing. In conversation with liim I 
perceived that many white people often sell rum to tlie In- 
dians, Vvhich I believe is a j^reat evil; in the first place 
they are thereby deprived of the use of reason, and iheir 
spirits being violently agita:ed, quarrels often arise which 
end in mischief; and the bitterness and resentment occa- 
sioned hereby, are frequently of long continuance. Again, 
their skins and furs, goiten through much fatigue and hard 
travels in hunting, with which they intended lo buy cloth- 
ing, they often sell at a low rate for more rum, when they 
become intoxicated; and afterward, when they suffer for 
want of the necessaries of life, are angry with those who, 
for the sake of gain, took advantage of their weakness. 
Their chiefs have often complained of ttiis in their treaties 
with the English. Where cunning people pass counter- 
feits, and impose on others that which is good for nothing, 
it is considered as wickedness; but for the sake of gain to 
sell that whit'h we know does people liaru), and which often 
works their ruin, manifests a hardened and corrupt heart; 
and is an evil which demands the care of all true lovers of 
virtue to suppress. While my mind this evening was thus 
employed, 1 also remembered that the people on the fron- 
tiers, among whom this evil is too common, are often poor; 
and that they venture to the outside of a colony, in order 
to live more independently of the wealthy, who often set 
high rents on their land. I was renewedly -confirmed in a 
belief, that if all our inhabitants lived according to sound 
wisdom, laboring to promote universal love and righteous- 
ness, and ceased Irom every inordinate desire after wealth, 
and from all custonis which are lincturerl with luxury, the 
way would be easy for our inhabitants, though they might 
be much more nuuierous than at present, to live comforta- 
bly on honest employments, without the teujptation they 
are so often under, of being drawn into schemes to make 
settlements on lands which have not been purchased of the 
Indians, or of applying to that wicked practice of selling 
rum to them. 

lOih of Gih mo. We set out early this morning, and 
crossed the western branch of Delaware, called the Great 
Lehienear Fort Allen; the water being high, we went over 



JOHN WOOL MAN. 105 

in a canoe. Here we met nn Indian, had friendly conver- 
sation with him, and gave him some biscuit; and he, liav- 
ing killed a deer, gave some of it to the Indians with us. 
After travelling some miles, we met several Indian men 
and women with a cow and horse, and some household 
goods, who were lately come from llieir dwelling at Wio- 
ming, and were going to settle at another place. We made 
them some small presents; and as some of them understood 
English, I told them ray motive for coming into tlieir 
country; with which they appeared satisfied. One of our 
guides talking awhile with an ancient woman concerning us, 
the poor old woman came to my companion and me, and 
took her leave of us with an appearance of sincere affection. 
We pitched our tent near the banks of trie same river, 
having labored hard in crossing some of those mountains 
called the Blue Ridge; the roughness of the stones, and 
the cavities between them, with the steepness of the hills, 
made it appear dangerous. But we were preserved in 
safety, through the kindness of Him whose works in these 
mountainous deserts appeared awful, and towards whom 
my heart was turned during this day's travel. 

Near our tent, on the sides of lai'ge trees peeled for that 
purpose, were various representations of men going to, and 
returning from the wars, and of souje being killed in battle. 
This was a path heretofore used by warriors; and as I 
walked about viewing those Indian histories, which were 
painted inostly in red or black; and thinking on the innu- 
merable afflictions which the proud, fierce spirit produceth 
in the world; also on the toils and fatigues of waniors in 
travelling over mountains and deserts; on their miseries 
ane distresses when far from home, and wounded by their 
enemies; of their bruises and great weariness in chasing 
one another over the rocks and mountains; of the restless, 
unquiet state of mind of those who live in this spirit, and 
of the hatred which mutually grows up in the minds of their 
children; the desire to cherish the spirit of love and peace 
among these people arose very fresh in me. This was the 
first night that we lodged in the woods; and being wax with 
travelling in the rain, as were also our blankets, the ground, 
our tent, and the bushes under which we purposed to lay, all 



106 THE JOURNAL OF 

looked dlscournging; but I believed, that it was the Lord 
who had thus fjir hrouglit me ror\vf;rd,and iliai tL^ woiild dis- 
pose ot" ine as He saw good; nM.'l so 1 fell easy. We kindled 
a fire, wiih our tent open to it; then laid some bushes tjext 
the ground^ and put our bhnikeis upon ihem lor our bed, 
and lying down got some .-le p. In ihe inorniug feeling a 
little unwell, T w.Mit into ihe river; ihe w;iter was cold, but 
soon after I feh fresh and well. About 8 o'. lock we set 
forvvarfl, and crossed a high mountain supposed to be u|)- 
vvard of four miles over, the norl!) side being the steepest. 
Aboui noon we weie over aken l)y one of the Moravian 
brethren, going to Wehaloosing, and an Indian man with 
bim, who could talk English; aiid we being together while 
our horses ate grass, had some friendly converscition; but 
they, travelling faster than we, S'.on left us. 'J'his Mora- 
vian, L undersiood, had this spring spent sofue time at 
Weh:doosing; and was invited by souje of the Indians to 
come again. 

12th of 6mo., being the first of the week and a 
rainy day, we continued in om- tent; and I was led to think 
on the nature of the exercise which hath attended me. 
Love was the first motion, and thence a concern arose to 
S})end sonse time with the Indians, that I might feel and 
understand their life, and th(^ spirit they live in, if haply [ 
might receive some instiuclion from them; or they might 
be in any degree helped forward by n/y following the lead- 
ings of truth among them: and as it pleased the Lord to 
make way for my going at a time when the troubles of war 
were increasing, and when by reason of much wet weather, 
travelling was more difficult than usual at that season, I 
looked upon it as a more favorable opportunity to season 
my mind, and to bring me into a nearer symjiathy with 
them. x\s mine eye was lo the great Father of mercies, 
humbly desiring to learn his will concerning me, I was 
made quiet and content. 

Our guide's horse strayed, though hoppled, in tl>e night; 
and afier searching some tinie for him, his footsteps were 
discovered in the path going back, whereupon my kind 
companion went off in the rain, and aftiM' about seveji hours 
returned with him. Here we lodged again; tying up our 



JOHN W L *I A N . 107 

horses before we went to bed, and loosing them to feed 
about break of day. 

13i!i of Gill mo. The sun appearing, we set forward; 
and as 1 rode over the barren liilis, my meditations were 
on t!ie aheralions in the circnnj.stances of the natives of 
this land, since the coming in of the English. 'I'he lands 
near tlie sea are conveniently situated for fishing; the lands 
near the rivers, where the tides How, and some above, are 
in many places fertile, and not monntainoits; while the 
changing of the tides, makes passing up and down easy 
with any kind of traffic, ^xhe natives have, in some places, 
for trifling considerations, sold ilieir inheritance so favora- 
bly situated; and in other ))!aces have been driven back by 
su|)erior force: theii' way of clothing themselves is also al- 
tered h-om wliat it was, and they being far removed from 
us, have to pass over mountain.s, swamps, and barren des- 
erts; so that travelling is veiy troublesome in bringing their 
skins and furs to trade with ns. By the extension of Eng- 
hsh settlements, and partly by the inci-ease of English hun- 
ters, the wild beasts on which the natives chiefly depend 
for subsistence, are not so tdentiful as they were; and peo- 
ple too often, for the sake of gain, induce them to waste 
their skins and furs, in purcijasing a liquor which tends to 
the ruin of them and their lamilies. 

My own will and desires were now very much broken, 
and my hoai t was with much earnestness, turned to the 
Lord, to whom alone I looked for helj> in the dangers be- 
fore me. I had a jirospect of the English along the coast, 
for upwards of nine lumdred miles, where I travelled; and 
their favorable siiuaiion and the diffi-'ulties attending the 
natives as well as the negroes in many places, were open 
before me. A weii^hly and heavenly care came over my 
mind, and love filled niy heait tf)wards all mankind, in 
which I felt a strong engagement that we nTight be obedi- 
ent to the Lord, while in tender mer'-y, he is yet calling 
to us; and that we might, so -jitend to pure miiversal right- 
eousness, as to give no just cause of ofTence to the gen- 
tiles, who do not profess Christianity, whether they be the 
blacks from Africa, or the native inhabitants of this conti- 
nent. Here I was led into a close and laborious inquiry, 



108 THE JOURNAL OF 

whether I, as an individual, kept clear from all things 
which tended to stir up, or were connected with wars, 
either in this land or in Africa; my heart was deeply con- 
cerned, that in future I might in all things keep steadily to 
the pure truth, and live and walk in the plainness and sim- 
plicity of a sincere follower of Christ. In this lonely 
journey, I did greatly bewail the spreading of a wrong 
spirit, believing tliat the prosperous, convenient situation of 
the English, would require a constant attention in us to 
Divine love and wisdom, in order to their being guided and 
supported, in a way answerable to the will of that good, 
gracious, and Almighty Being, who hath an equal regard to 
all mankind. And hei'e luxury and covelousness, with the 
numerous oppressions, and other evils attending them, ap- 
peared very afflicting to me; and I felt in that which is im- 
mutable, that the seeds of great calamity and desolation 
arc sown and growing fast on this continent. Nor have I 
words sufficient to set forth the longing I then felt, that we, 
who are placed along the coast, and have tasted the love 
and goodness of God, might arise in the strength thereof; 
and like faitlii^ul messengers, labor lo check the growth of 
these seeds, that they may not ripen to the ruin of our 
posterity. 

On reaching the Indian settlement at Wioming, we were 
told, that an Indian runner had been at that place a day or 
two before us, and brought news of the Indians having 
taken an English fort westward, and destroyed the people; 
and that they were endeavoring to lake anolhei-; also, that 
another Indian runner came there about the middle of the 
previous night, from a town abou ten miles from Wehaloo- 
sing;, and brought the news, that some Indian warriors 
from distant parts, came to that town with tvvo English 
scalps, and told the people that it was war with the En- 
glish. 

Our guides took us to the house of a very ancient man. 
Soon after we had put in our baggage, there came a man 
from another Indian house some distance off. Perceiv ng 
there was a man near the door, I went out; the man had a 
toinahawk wrapped under his matchcoat out of sight. As 
I approached him, he took it in his hand; I went forward, 



JOHN WOOLMAN. 109 

=and speaking to him in a friendly way, perceived he under- 
stood some English. My companion joining me, we had 
some talk with him concerning the nature of our visit in 
these parts; he then v/ent into the house with us, and talk- 
ing with our guides, soon appeared friendly, sat down, and 
smoked his pipe. Though taking his hatchet in his hand 
at the instant I<lrewnearto him, had a disagreeable appear- 
ance, T believe he had no other intent than to be in readi- 
ness in case any violence were offered to him. 

On hearing the news brought by these Indian runners, 
tmd bei.Tg told by the Indians vv'here we lodged, that the 
Indians about Wioming expected in a few days to move to 
■some larger towns, I thought, to all outward appearance, it 
would be dangerous travelling at this time. After a hard 
day's journey, I was brought into a painful exercise at night, 
in which I had to trace back and view the steps I had tak- 
en from my first moving in the visit; and though I had to 
bewail some weakness which at times Had attended me, 
yet I could not find that I had ever given way to wilful 
disobedience. Believing I had, under a sense of duty, 
-conje thus far, I was now earnest in spirit, beseeching the 
Lord to show me what I ought to do. In this great dis- 
tress I grew jealous of myself, lest the desire of reputation 
as a man firmly settled to persevere through dangers, or the 
fear of disgrace from my returning without performing the 
visit, might have some place in me. Full of these thoughts, 
I lay great part of the night, while my beloved compan- 
ion slept by me, till the Lord, my gracious Father, who 
•saw the conflicts of my soul, was pleased to give quietness: 
"Then I was again strengthened to commit my life, and all 
things relating thereto, into his heavenly hands; and got a 
iittle sleep towards day. 

14th of 6th mo. We sought out and visited all the In- 
dians hereabouts that we could meet with, in number about 
twenty; they were chiefly in one place, about a mile from 
where we lodged. I expressed to them the care I had on 
my mind for their good; aiid told them, that true love had 
made me willing thus to leave my family to come and see 
the Indians, and speak with them in their houses. Some 
of them appeared kind and friendly. After taking leav^ 
IQ 



!10 THE JOURNAL OF 

of them, we went up the river Susquehannah, about three 
miles, to the house of an Indian, called Jacob January. 
He had killed his hog; and the women were making store 
of bread, and preparing to move up the river. Here our 
pilots had left their canoe when they came down in the 
spring, and lying dry it had become leaky; this detained us 
some hours, so that we had a good deal of friendly conver- 
sation with the family; and eating dinner with them, we 
mpde them some small presents: then putting our baggage 
into the canoe, some of them pushed slowly up the stream, 
and the rest of us rode our horses; we swam them over a 
creek, called Lahawahamunk, and pitched our tent above 
it in the evening. In a sense of God's goodness in help- 
ing me in my distress, sustaining me under trials, and in- 
clining my heart to trust in Him, I lay down in an humble, 
bowed frame of mind, and had a comfortable nigU's lodg- 
ing. 

15th of 6th mo. We proceeded forward till the after- 
noon, when a storm appearing, we met our canoe at an ap- 
pointed place, and staid all night, the rain continuing so 
heavy that it beat through our tent, and wet both us and 
our baggage. The next day, we found abundance of trees 
blown down by the storm yesterday; and had occasion 
reverently to consider the kind dealings of the Lord, who 
provided a safe place for us in a valley, while this storm 
continued. We were much hindered by -the trees which 
had fallen across our path; and in some swamps our way 
was so stopped that we got through with extreme difficulty. 
I had this day often to consider myself as a sojourner in 
this world. A belief in the all-sufficiency of God to sup- 
port his peojde in their pilgrimage, felt comfortable to me; 
and I was industriously employed to get to a state of per- 
fect resignation. 

We seldom saw our canoe but at appointed places, by 
reason of the path going off from the river. This after- 
noon. Job Chilaway, an Indian from Wehaloosing, who 
talks good English, and is acquainted with several people in 
and about Philadelphia, met our people on the river. Un- 
derstanding where we expected to lodge, he pushed back 
about six miles, and came to us after night; and in a while 



JOHN VVOOLMAN, 111 

our own canoe arrived, it being hard work pushing up the 
stream. Job told us, that an Indian came in haste to their 
town yesterday, and told them, that three warriors from a 
distance, lodged in a town above Wehaloosing, a few nights 
past; and that these three men were going against the 
English at Juniata. Job was going down the river to the 
province-store at Shamokin. Though T was so far favor- 
ed with health as to continue travelling; yet, through the 
various difficulties in our journey, and the different way of 
living from which I had been used to, I grew sick. The 
news of these W'arriors being on their march so near us, 
and not knowing whether we miglit not fall in with them, 
was a fresh trial of my faith; and though, through the 
strength of Divine love, I had several times been enabled 
to commit myself to the Divine disposal, I still found the 
want of a renewal of my strength, that I might be able to 
persevere therein; and my cries for help were put up to 
the Lord, who, in great mercy, gave me a resigned heart, 
in which I found quietness. 

Parting from Job Chilaway, on the 17th, we went on^^ 
and reached Wehaloosins; about the middle of the afternoon. 
The first Indian that we saw, was a woman of a modest 
countenance, with a bible, who spake first to our 
guide; and then with an harmonious voice, expressed her 
gladness at seeing us, having before heard of our coming. 
By the direction of our guide, w^e sat down on a log, 
while he went to the town, to tell the people we were 
come. My companion and I sitting thus together, in a 
deep inward stillness, the poor woman came and sat near 
us; and great awfulness coming over us, we rejoiced in a 
sense of God's love manifested to our poor souls. After 
a while, we heard a conch-shell blow several times, and 
then came John Curtis, and another Indian man, who kind- 
ly invited us into a house near the town, where we found 
about sixty people sitting in silence. After sitting with 
them a short time, I stood up, and in some tenderness of 
spirit acquainted them, in a few short sentences, with the 
nature of my visit; and that a concern for their good had 
made me willing to come thus far to see them; which 
some of them understanding, interpreted to the others, and 



112 THE JOURNAL OF 

there appeared gladness among thenn. I then shewed 
them my certificate, which was explained to them; and 
the Moravian who overtook us on the way, being now 
here, bade me welcome. But the Indians knowing that 
this Moravian and I were of different religious societies, 
and as some of their people had encouraged him to come 
and stay a while with ihem, they were, 1 beiieve, concern- 
ed that there might oe no jarring or discord in their meet- 
ings; and having I suppose conferred together, they ac- 
quainted me that the people, at my request, would at any 
time come together, and hold meetings; they also told me, 
that they expected the Moravian would speak in iheir set- 
tled meetings; which are commonly held in the morning, 
and near evening. So finding liberly in my heart to speak 
to the Moravian, I told him of the care I felt on my mmdi 
for the good of these people; and my belief that no ill ef- 
fects would follow, if I sometimes spake in their meetings, 
when love engaged me thereto, without calling them to- 
gether at times when they did not meet of course. He 
expressed his good-will towards my speaking at any time,, 
all that I found in my heart to say. 

On the evening of the 18ih, I was at their meeting, 
where pure gospel love was felt, to the tendering of some 
of our hearts. The interpreters endeavored to acquaint 
the people with what I said, in short sentences, but i'ound 
some difficulty, as none of them were quite perfect in the 
English and Delaware tongues, so they helped one anoth- 
er, and we labored along. Divine love attending. After- 
wards, feeling my mind covered with the spirit of prayer, 
I told the interpreters that I found it in my heart to pray 
to God, and believed, if I prayed aright, He would hear 
me; and I expressed my vvillingness for them to omit in- 
terpreting; so our meeting ended with a degree of Divine 
lovjB. Before the people went out, I observed Papune- 
hang (the man who had been zealous in laboring for a re- 
formation in that town, being then very tender) speaking to 
one of the interpreters; and I was afterwards told that he 
said in substance as follows: "I love to feel where words 
come from." 

19th of 6th mo. and first of the week. This morning 



JOHN W L M A N . 113 

the Indian who came with the Moravian, being also a 
member of that society, prayed in the meeting, and then 
the Moravian spake a short time to the people. In the 
afternoon my heart being filled with a heavenly care for 
their good, I spake to them awhile by interpreters; but 
none of them being perfect in the work, and I feeling the 
current of love run strong, told the interpreters, that I be- 
lieved s.ome of the people would understand me, and so I 
proceeded without them; and I believe the Holy Ghost 
wrought on some hearts to edification where all the words 
were not understood. I looked upon it as a time of Di- 
vine favor; and my heart was tendered and truly thankful 
before the Lord. After I sat down, one of the interpre- 
ters seemed spirited to give the Indians the substance of 
what I had said. 

Before our first meeting this morning, I was led to medi- 
tate on the manifold difficulties of these Indians, who, by 
the permission of the Six Nations, dvv^ell in these parts. 
A near sympathy vv^ith them was raised in me; and my 
heart being enlarged in the love of Christ, I thought that 
the affectionate care of a good man for his only brother in 
affliction, does not exceed what I then felt for that people. 
I came to this place through much trouble; and though, 
through the mercies of God, I believed that if I died in 
the journey, it would be well with me; yet the thoughts of 
falling into the hands of Indian warriors, were in times of 
weakness, afflicting to me; and being of a tender constitu- 
tion of body, the thoughts of captivity among them were 
also grievous; supposing that as they were strong and har- 
dy, they might demand service of me beyond what I could 
well bear. But the Lord alone was my keeper; and I be- 
lieved, that if I went into captivity, it would be for some 
good end. Thus, from time to time, ray mind was center- 
ed in resignation, in which I always found quietness. And 
this day, though 1 had the same dangerous w^ilderness be- 
tween me and home, I was inwardly joyful that the Lord 
had strengthened me to come on this visit, and had mani- 
fested a fatherly care over me in my poor lowly condition; 
when, in mine own eyes, I appeared inferior to many among 
the Indians. 

When the last mentioned meeting was ended, it being 

10* 



114 THE JOURNAL Of' 

night, Papunehang went to bed; and hearing Iiim speafc 
with an harmonious voice I suppose for a minute or two,- 
1 asked the interpreter, who told me, that he was express- 
ing his thankfulness to God for the favors he had received 
that day; and prayed, that He would continue to favor him 
with the same, which he had experienced in that meeting. 
Though Papunehang had before agreed to receive the Mo- 
ravian, and join with them, he still appeared kind aiud lov- 
ing to us. 

I was at two meetings on the 20th, and silent in them. 
The following morning, in meeting, my heart was enlarged 
in pure love among them, and in short plain sentences, I 
expressed several things that rested upon me, which one 
of the interpreters gave the people pretty readily. The 
meeting ended in supplication, and I had cause humbly to 
acknowledge the loving-kindness of the Lord towards us; 
and then I believed that a door remained open for the faith- 
ful disciples of Jesus Christ, to labor among these people. 
And now, feeling my mind at liberty to return, 1 took my 
leave of them in general, at the conclusion of what I said 
in meeting; and we then prepared to go homeward. But 
some of their most active men told us, that when we were 
ready to move, the people would choose to come and 
shake hands with us; those who usually came to meeting 
did so; and from a secret draught in my mind, I went 
among some who did not usually go to meeting, and took 
my leave of them also. The Moravian and his Indian in- 
terpreter appeared respectful to us at parting. This town^ 
Wehaloosing, stands on the bank of the Susquehannahy 
and consists, 1 believe, of about forty houses, mostly com- 
pact together; some about thirty feet long, and eighteen 
wide, some bigger some less. They are built mostly of 
split plank, one end being set in the ground, and the other 
pinned to a plate, on which rafters are laid, and then cov- 
ered with bark. I understand a great flood last winter 
overflowed the greater part of the ground where the town 
stands; and some were now about moving their houses to 
higher ground. 

We expected only two Indians to be of our company, but 
when w^e were ready to go, we found many of them were 



JOHN WOOL MAN, 115 

going to Bethlehem with skins and furs, and chose to go 
in company with us. So they loaded two canoes in which 
they desired us to go, telling us, that the waters were so 
raised with the rains, that the horses should he taken by 
such as were better acquainted with the fording places. 
We therefore, with several Indians, went in the canoes, 
and others went on horses, there being seven besides ours. 
We met with the horsemen once on the way by appointment, 
and at night we lodged a little below a branch called Tank- 
hannah, and some of the young men going out a little be- 
fore dusk with their guns, brought in a deer. 

Through diligence, w^e reached Wioming before night,^ 
the 22nd, and understood that the Indians were mostly 
gone from this place. We went up a small creek into the 
woods with our canoes, and pitching our tent, carried out 
our baggage; and before dark our horses came to us. 
Next morning the horses being loaded, and our baggage 
prepared, we set forward being in all fourteen; and with 
diligent travelling, were favorod to get near half way to 
Fort Allen. The land on this road from Wiom.ing to our 
frontier being mostly poor, and good grass being scarce, 
the Indians chose a piece of low ground to lodge on, as 
the best for grazing. I had sweat much in travelling, and 
being weary, slept soundly. In the night I perceived that 
I had taken cold, of which I was favored soon to get better. 

24th of 6th mo. This day we passed Fort Allen, and 
lodged near it in the woods. We forded the westerly 
branch of the Delaware three times, which was a shorter 
way, than going over the top of the blue mountains, called 
the Second Ridge. In the second time of fording where 
the river cuts through the mountain, the waters being rapid 
and pretty deep, my companion's mare being a tall tracta- 
ble animal, was sundry times driven back througli the ri- 
ver, being laden with the burdens of some small horses, 
which were thought unable to come through with their 
loads. The troubles westward, and the difficulty for In- 
dians to pass through our frontier, was, I apprehend, one 
reason why so many came, expecting that our being in 
company, would prevent the outside inhabitants being sur- 
prised. We reached Bethlehem on the 25th; taking care 



116 T n E J U R N A L F 

to keep foremost, and to acquaint people, on and near the 
road. who these Indians were. This we found very need- 
ful; for the frontier inhabitants were often alariiied at the 
report of the English being killed by Indians westward. 
Among our company were some whom I did not remember 
to have seen at meeting; and some of these at first were 
very reserved; but we being several days together, and be- 
having in a friendly manner towards them, and making them 
suitable returns for the services they did us, they became 
more free and sociable. 

26th of 6th mo. Having carefully endeavored to settle 
all affairs with the Indians relative to our journey, we took 
leave of tliem, and I thought they generally parted from us 
affectionately. We went forward to Richland, and had a 
very comiortable meeting among our friends, it being the 
1st day of the week. Here I parted with my kind friend 
and compaiuon Benjamin Parvin; and accompanied by my 
friend Samuel Foulk, we rode to John Cadwallader's, from 
whence I reached home the next day, and found my fam- 
ily tolerably well. They and my friends appeared glad to 
see me return from a journey which they apprehended 
would be dangerous; but my mind, while I was out, had 
been so employed in striving for perfect resignation, and 
had so often been confirmed in a belief, that whatever the 
Lord might be pleased to allot for me, it would work for 
good, that T was careful lest I should admit- any degree or 
selfishness in being glad overmuch, and labored to improve 
by those trials in such a manner as my gracious Father and 
Protector designed. Between the English settlements and 
Wehaloosing, we had only a narrow path, which in many 
places is much grown up with bushes, and interrupted by 
abundance of trees lying across it; these, together with the 
mountain swamps, and rough stones, make it a difficult 
road to travel; and the niore so because rattlesnakes abound 
here, of which we killed four. People who have never 
been in such places, have but an iinperfect idea of them; 
and I was not only taught patience, but also made thankful 
to God, who thus led about and instructed me, that I might 
have a quick and lively feeling of the afflictions of my fel- 
low-creatures, whose situation in life is difficult. 



JOHN W L M A N , 117 



CHAPTER IX 



1763.— 1769. 

Religious conversation with a company met to see the tricks of a jug' 
gler. — Account of John Smith's advice, and of the proceedings of a 
Committee, at the xj early -meeting in 1764 — Contemplations on the nature 
of true wisdom. — Visit to the families of friends at Mount-Holly, Mans- 
field, and Burlington, and to the meetings on the sea coast from Cape 
May towards Squan. — Some account of Joseph JVichols and his follow- 
ers. — On the different state of the first settlers in Pennsylvania who de- 
pended on their o->.vn labor, compared with Ihose of the southern provin^ 
ces v^ho kept negroes. — Visit to the JVbrthern parts of JVew- Jersey , and 
the western parts of Maryland and Pennsijlvania, also to the farailies of 
friends at Mount-Holly and several parts of Maryland. Further co?i- 
siderations on keeping slaves; and his concern for having been a party 
to the sale of one. — Thoughts on friends exercising offices in civil gov- 
ernment. 

The latter part of the summer, 1763, there came a man 
to Mount Holly, who had previously published a printed 
advertisement, that at a certain public house, he would show 
many wonderful operations, which were therein enumera- 
ted. At the appointed time he did, by sleight of hand, 
perform sundry things which appeared strange to the spec- 
tators. Understanding that the show was to be repeated 
the next night, and that the people were to meet about sun- 
set, I felt an exercise on that account. So I went to the 
public-house in the evening, and told the man of the house 
that I had an inclination to spend a part of the evening 
there; with which he signified that he was content. Then 
sitting down by the door, I spoke to the people, in the fear 
of the Lord, as they came together, concerning this show, 
and labored to convince them that their thus assembling to 
see these sleight of hand tricks, and bestowing their money 
to support men who, in that capacity, were of no use to 
the world, was contrary to the nature of the Christian reli- 
gion. One of the company endeavored to show, by argu- 
ments, the reasonableness of their proceedings herein; but 
after considering some texts of scripture, and calmly deba- 
ting the matter, he gave up the point. After spending 



118 THEJOURNALOF 

about an hour among them, and feeling my mind easy, I 
departed. 

25th of 9th mo., 1764. At our yearly meeting at Phil- 
adelphia, this day, John Smith of Marlborough, aged up- 
wards of eighty years, a faithful minister, though not elo- 
quent, stood up in our meeting of ministers and elders, and 
appearing to be under a great exercise of spirit, informed 
friends in substance as follows: '' That he had been a mem- 
ber of our society upwards of sixty years, and he well re- 
membered that, in those early times, friends were a plain 
lowly minded people; and that there was n)uch tenderness 
and contrition in their meetings. — That at twenty years 
from that time, the society increasing in wealth, and in some 
degree conforming to the fashions of the world, true hu- 
mility was less apparent, and their meetings in general were 
not so lively and edifying. — That at the end of forty 
years, many of them ."vere grown very rich; and many of 
the society made a specious appearance in the world; that 
wearing fine costly garments, and using silver and other 
watches, became customary with them, their sons and their 
daughters; these marks of outward wealth and greatness, 
appeared on some in our meetings of ministers and elders; 
and as such things became more prevalent, so the power- 
ful overshadowings of the Holy Ghost were less manifest 
in the society. That there had been a continued imrease 
of such ways of life, even until the present time, and that 
the weakness which hath now overspread the society, and 
the barrenness manifest among us, is matter of much sor- 
row." He then mentioned the uncertainty of his attend- 
ing these meetings in future, expecting his dissolution was 
near; and having tenderly expressed his concern for us, 
signified that he had seen in the true light, that the Lord 
would bring back his people from these things, into which 
they were thus degenerated; but that his faithful servants 
must go through great and heavy exercises. 

20th of 9th mo. The committee appointed by the year- 
ly meeting to visit the quarterly and monthly meetings, 
gave an account in writing of their proceedings in that ser- 
vice. They signified, that in the course of the visit, they 
had been apprehensive that some persons holding offi- 



JOHN WOOL MA N . 119 

ces in government, inconsistent with our principles, and 
others who kept slaves, remaining active members in our 
meetings for discipline, had been one means of weakness 
prevailing in some places. After this report was read, an 
exercise revived in my mind, which had attended me for 
several years; and inward cries to the Lord were raised in 
me, that the fear of man might not prevent me from doing 
what he required of me; and standing up, I spoke in sub- 
stance as follows; " I have felt a tenderness in my mind 
towards persons, in two circumstances mentioned in that 
report: viz. towards such active members as keep slaves, 
and such as hold offices in civil government; and I have 
desired that friends, in all their conduct, may be kindly 
aftectioned one towards another. Many friends who keep 
slaves, are under some exercise on that account; and at 
times think about trying them with freedom; but find many 
things in their way. The way of living, and the annual 
expenses of some of them are such, that it seems imprac- 
ticable for them to set their slaves free, without changing 
their own way of life. It has been my lot to be often 
abroad: and I have observed in some places, at quarterly 
and yearly meetings, and at some houses where travelling 
friends and their horses are often entertained, that the 
yearly expense of individuals therein is very considerable. 
And friends in some places crowding much on persons in 
these circumstances for entertainment, hath rested as a 
burden on my mind for some years past. I now express 
it in the fear of the Lord, greatly desiring that friends 
here present may duly consider it." 

In the fall of this year, having hired a man to work, 1 
perceived in conversation with him that he had been a sol- 
dier in the late war on this continent; and he informed me 
in the evening, in a narrative of his captivity among the 
Indians, that he saw tv/o of his fellow captives tortured to 
death in a very cruel manner. This relation affected me 
with sadness, under which I went to bed; and the next 
morning, soon after I awoke, a fresh and living sense of 
Divine love overspread my mind; in which I had a re- 
newed prospect of the nature of that wisdom from above, 
which leads to a right use of all gifts, both spiritual and 



120 THE JOURNAL OF 

temporal, and gives content therein. Under a feeling 
thereof, I wrote as follows: 

" Hath He who gave me a being, attended with many 
wants unknown to brute creatures, given me a capacity su- 
perior to theirs, and shown me that a moderate applica- 
tion to business is suitable to my present condition; and 
that this, attended v/ith his blessing, may supply all my 
outward wants, while they remain within the bounds He 
hath fixed; and while no imaginary wants proceeding 
from an evil spirit, have any place in me? Attend then, 
O my soul! to this pure wisdom, as thy sure conductor 
through the manifold dangers of this world. 

" Doth pride lead to vanity.'' Doth vanity form imagina- 
ry wants.'' Do these wants prompt men to exert their 
power, in requiring more from others than they would be 
willing to perform themselves, were the same required of 
them.'^ Do those proceedings beget hard thoughts.-^ Do 
hard thoughts when ripe, become malice.'^ Does malice, 
when ripe, become revengeful; and in the end inflict terri- 
ble pains on our fellow-creatures, and spread desolations in 
the world.'' 

" Do mankind walking in uprightness, delight in each 
other's happiness.'' And do those who are capable of this 
attainment, by giving way to an evil spirit, employ their 
skill and strength to afflict and destroy one another.'' Re- 
member then, O my soul! the quietude of those in whom 
Christ governs, and in all thy proceedings feel after it. 

" Doth He condescend to bless thee with his presence.'* 
To move and influence thee to action? To dwell and to 
walk in thee? Remember then thy station, as a being sa- 
cred to God. iVccept of the strength freely offered to 
thee; and take heed that no weakness, in conforming to 
unwise, expensive, and hard-hearted customs, gendering to 
discord and strife, be given way to. Doth he claim my 
body as his temple, and graciously require that I may be 
sacred to Him? Oh! that I may prize this favor; and that 
my whole life may be conformable to this character! Re- 
member, O my soul! that the Prince of peace is thy 
Lord; that He communicates his unmixed wisdom to his 
family; that they, living in perfect simplicity, may give no 



JOHN W L M A N . 121 

just cause of offence to any creature, but that they may 
walk as He walked!" 

Having felt an openness in my heart towards visiting 
families in our own meeting, and especially in the town of 
Mount Holly, the place of my abode, J mentioned it at our 
ojontbly meeting in the fore-part of the winter of 1764; 
which being agreed to, and several friends of our meeting be- 
ing united in the exercise, we proceeded therein; and through 
Divine favor we were helped in the work, so that it appear- 
ed to me as a fresh reviviag of :^odly care among friends. 
The latter part of the same winter, I joined my friend 
William Jones, in a visit to friends' families in Mansfield; 
in which labor 1 bad caus-e to admire the goodness of the 
Lord toward us. 

My mind being drawn towards friends along the sea-coast 
from Cape May to near Squan; and also to visit some 
people in those parts, among whom there is no settled wor- 
ship; I joined w^ith my beloved friend Benjamin Jones, in 
a visit to them; having friends' unity therein. We set off 
tbe 24th of 10 mo. 1765, and had a prosperous and very 
satisfactory journey; feeling at times, through the goodness 
of the Heavenly Shepherd, the gospel to flow freely to- 
wards a poor people scattered in these places. Soon after 
our return, I joined my friends John Sleeper and Elizabeth 
Smith, in a visit to friends' families at Burlington, there be- 
ing at this time about fifty families of our society in that 
city; and we had cause humbly to adore our heavenly Fa- 
ther, who baptized us into a feeling of the state of the 
people, and strengthened us to labor in true gospel love 
among them. 

Having had a concern, at times, for several years, to pay 
a religious visit to friends on the Eastern Shore of Mary- 
land, and to travel on foot among them, that by so travel- 
ling I might have a more lively feeling of the condition of 
the oppressed slaves, set an example of lowliness before 
the eyes of their masters, and be more out of the way of 
temptation to unprofitable converse; and the time drawing 
near in which I believed it my duty to lay my concern be- 
fore our monthly meeting, I perceived, in conversation with 
my beloved friend John Sleeper, that he ajsp W93 under a 

U 



122 THE JOURNAL OF 

similar concern, to travel on foot in the form of a servant 
among them, as he expressed it. This he told me before 
he knew aught of my exercise. Being thus drawn the 
same way, we laid our exercise and the nature of it before 
friends; and obtaining certificates, we set off the 6th of 
5th mo., 1766; and were at meetings with friends at Wil- 
mington, Duck Creek, Little Creek and Motherkill. My 
heart was often tendered under the Divine influence, and 
enlarged in love towards the people among whom we 
travelled. 

From Motherkill, we crossed the country about thirty- 
five miles to Tuckahoe in IMaryland, and had a meeting 
there, and also at Marshy Creek. At the last three meet- 
ings there were a considerable number of the followers of 
one Joseph Nichols, a preacher; who I understand is not 
in outward fellowship with any religious society; but pro- 
fesseih nearly the same principles as those of our society, 
and often travels up and down appointing meetings, which 
many people attend. I heard of some who had been irre- 
ligious people, that were now his folio v.^ers, and were be- 
come sober, well-behaved men and women. Some irreg- 
ularities, I hear, have been among the people at several of 
his meetings; but from what I have perceived, I believe 
the man and some of his followers, are honestly disposed, 
but that skillful fathers are wanting among them. 

We then went to Choptank and Third Haven; and 
thence to Queen Anne's. The weather for some davs 
past having been hot and dry, and we having travelled pret- 
ty steadily, and having had hard labor in meetings, I grew 
weakly; at which I was for a time discouraged; but look- 
ing over our journey, and considering how the Lord had 
supported our minds and bodies, so that we had gone for- 
ward much faster than I expected before we came out, I 
saw that I had been in danger of too strongly desiring to 
get quickly through the journey, and that the bodily weak- 
ness now attending me was a kindness; and then, in con- 
trition of spirit, 1 became very thankful to my gracious 
Father, for this manifestation of his love; and in humble 
S'.ibmission to his will, my trust in him was renewed. 

In this part of our journey, I had many thoughts on the 



J H N W L M A N . 123 

different circumstances of friends who inhabit Pennsylvania 
and Jersey, from those who dwell in Maryland, Virginia, 
and Carolina. Pennsylvania and New Jersey were settled 
by friends, vi^ho were convinced of our principles in Eng- 
land in times of suffering: these coming over, bought lands 
of the natives, and applied to husbandry in a peaceable 
way; and many of their children were taught to labor for 
their living. Few of these, I believe, settled in any of the 
southern provinces; but by the faithful labors of travelling 
friends in early times, there was considerable convioce- 
ment among the inhabitants of these parts. I also remem- 
bered having read of the warlike disposition of many of 
the first settlers in those provinces, and of their numerous 
engagements with the natives, in which much blood was 
shed, even in the infancy of the colonies. Some of the 
people inhabiting those places, being grounded in customs 
contrary to the pure truth, were affected with the power- 
ful preaching of the Word of Life, and joined in fellows- 
ship with our society, and in so doing they had a great 
work to go through. In the history of the reformation from 
Popery, it is observable that the progress was gradual from 
age to age. The uprightness of the first reformers, in at- 
tending to the light and understanding given to them, open- 
ed the way for sincere-hearted people to proceed further 
afterwards; and thus each one truly fearing God, and la- 
boring in the works of righteousness appointed for him 
in his day, findeth acceptance with Him. Through the 
darkness of the times, and the corruption of manners and 
customs, some upright men may have had little more for 
their day's work than to attend to the righteous prin- 
ciple in their minds, as it related to their own conduct 
in life, without pointing out to others the whole extent of 
that, into which the same principle VvOuJd lead succeeding 
ages. Thus, for instance, among an imperious warlike 
people, supported by oppressed slaves, some of these mas- 
ters, I suppose, are awakened to feel and to see their er- 
ror; and, through sincere repentance, cease from oppres- 
sion, and become like fathers to their servants; showing 
by their example, a pattern of humility in living, and mod- 
deration in governing, for the instruction and admonition 



124 THE JOURNAL OF 

of their oppressing neighbors; these, without carrying the 
reformation further, have, I believe, found acceptance with 
the Lord. Such was the beginning; and those who suc- 
ceeded them, and who faithfully attended to the nature and 
spirit of tlie reformation, have seen the necessity of pro- 
ceeding forward; and have not only to instruct others, by 
their own example, in governing well, but have also to use 
means to prevent their successors from having so much 
power to oppress others. 

Here I was renewedly confirmed in my mind, that the 
Lord (whose tender mercies are over all his works, and 
whose ear is open to the cries and groans of the oppressed) 
is graciously moving in- the hearts of people, to di aw them 
ofi^ from the desire of wealth, and to bring them into such 
an humble, lowly way of living, that they may see their 
way clearly to repair to the standard of true rigliteousness; 
and may not only break the yoke of oppression, but may 
know Him to be their strength and support in times of out- 
ward affliction. 

We crossed Chester River; had a meeting there, and 
also at Cecil and Sassafras. My bodily weakness, joined 
with a heavy exercise of mind, was to me an humbling dis- 
pensation, and I had a very lively feeling of the state of 
the oppressed; yet I often thought, that what I suffered 
was little, compared with the sufferings of the blessed Je- 
sus, and many of his faithful followers; and I may say 
with thankfulness, that I was made content. From Sas- 
safras we went pretty directly home, where we found our 
families well. For several weeks after our return, I had 
often to look over our journey; and though to me it ap- 
peared as a small service, and that some fatihful messengers 
will vet have more bitter cups to drink in those southern 
provinces for Christ's sake, than we have had; yet I found 
peace in that 1 had been helped to walk in sincerity, ac- 
cording to the understanding and strength given to me, 

13th of 11th mo. With the unity of friends at our 
monthly meeting, and in company with my beloved friend 
Benjamin Jones, I set out on a visit to friends in the up- 
per part of this province, having had drawings of love in 
iny heart that wav for a considerable time. We travelled 



JOHN W L M A N . 125 

tis far as Hardwick, and I had inward peace in my labors 
of love among them. Through the humbling dispensations 
of Divine Providence, my mind hath been further brought 
into a feeling of the difBculties of friends, and their ser- 
vants south- west ward; and being often engaged in spirit on 
their account, I believed it my duty to walk into some parts 
of the western shore of Maryland, on a religious visit. 
Having obtained a certificate from friends of our monthly 
meeting, I took leave of ray family under the heart-tender- 
ing operation of truth; and on the 20th of 4th mo. 1767, 
rode to the ferry opposite to Philadelphia, and thence 
walked to William Home's at Derby, the same evening. 
Next day I pursued my journey alone, and reached Con- 
cord week day meeting. 

Discouragements and a weight of distress had, at 
times, attended me in this lonesome walk, but through these 
afflictions, I was mercifully preserved. Sitting down 
with friends, my mind was turned towards the Lord, to wait 
for his holy leadings; and, in infinite love. He was pleas- 
ed to soften my heart into humble contrition, and renew- 
edly to strengthen me to go forward, so that to me it v^'as 
a time of heavenly refreshment in a silent meeting. The 
next day I came to New Garden week day meeting, in 
which T sat in bowedness of spirit; and being baptized into 
a feeling of the state of some present, the Lord gave us a 
iieart-tendering season: to his name be the praise. Pass- 
ing on, I was at Notiingham monthly meeting; and at a 
meeting at Little Britain on first day^ in the afternoon, 
several friends came to the house where I lodged, and we 
had a little afternoon meeting; and through the humbling pow- 
er of truth, I had to admire the loving kindness of the Lord 
manifested to us. 

26th of 4th mo. I crossed the Susquehannah, and 
coming among people in outward ease and greatness, sup- 
ported chiefly on the labor of slaves, my heart was much 
affected; and in awful retiredness, my mind was gathered 
inward to the Lord, humbly desiring that, in true resigna- 
tion, I might receive instruction from Him, respecting my 
duty among this people. Though travelling on foot was 
weari?=nme to my bodv, yet it was agreeable to the state of 



126 THE JOURNAL OF 

my mind. Being weakly, I was covered with sorrow and 
heav^iness, on account of the prevailing spirit of this world, 
by which customs grievous and oppressive are introduced 
on the one hand, and pride and wantonness on the other. 

In this lonely walk, and state of abasement and humilia- 
tion, the state of the church in these parts was opened be- 
fore me; and I may truly say with the prophet: ^' I was 
bowed down at the hearing of it; I was dismayed at the 
seeing of it." Under this exercise, I attended the quar- 
terly meeting at Gunpowder; anil, in bowedness of spirit, 
1 had to expiess with much plainness, my feelings respect- 
ing friends living in fulness, on the labors of the poor op- 
pressed negroes; and that promise of the IMost Higli was 
now revived: '' I will gather all nations and tongues; and 
they shall come and see my glory." Here the sufferings 
of Christ, and his tasting death for every man, and the 
travels, sufferings, and martyrdom of the apostles, and 
primitive christians, in laboring (or the conversion of the 
gentiles, were livingly revived in me; and according to the 
measure of strength afforded, I labored in some tender- 
ness of spirit, being deej)ly affected among them. The 
difibrence between the present treatment which these gen- 
tiles, the negroes, receive at our hands, and the labors of 
the priujiiive christians for ti)e conversion of the gentiles, 
were pressed home, and the power of truth came over us; 
under a feeling of which, my mind was united to a tender- 
heaited people in these parts. The meeting concluded in 
a sense of Uod's goodness towards his humble, dependent 
children. 

The next day was a general meeting for worship, much 
crowded, in which I was deeply engaged in inward cries to 
the Lord for help, t[)at I miglit stand wholly resigned, and 
move only as he might be pleased to lead me. 1 was mer- 
cifully helped to labor honestly and fervently among them, 
in which I found inward peace; and the sincere were com- 
forted. From this place 1 turned towards Pipe Creek, 
iiud the Red Lands, and had several meetings among friends 
in those parrs. My heart was ofien tenderly alrected, un- 
der a sense of the Lord's goodness in sanctifying my trou- 
bles and exercises, turning them to my conifort, and 1 be- 



JOHN W L M A N . 1^7 

lieve to ihe benefit of many others; for I may say witli 
thankfulness, that in this visit, it appeared like a tendering 
visitation in most places. 

I passed on to the western quarterly meeting in Penn- 
sylvania. During the several days of this meeting, 1 
was mercifully preserved in an inward feeling after the mind 
of truth, and my public labors tended to my humilia- 
tion, with which I was content. After the quarterly meet- 
ing for worship ended, I felt drawings to go to the wo- 
men's meeting for business, w4iich was very full: here the 
humility of Jesus Christ, as a pattern for us to walk by, 
was livingly opened before me; and in treating on it my 
heart was enlarged, and it was a baptizing time. I was 
afterwards at meetings at Concord, Middletown, Provi- 
dence, and Haddonfield, whence T returned home, and 
found my family well. A sense of the Lord's merciful 
preservation in this my journey, excites reverent thankful- 
ness to Him. 

2nd of 9th mo. 1767. With the unity of friends, I set 
oft' on a visit to friends in the upper part of Berks and 
Philadelphia counties; was at eleven meetings in about two 
weeks, and have renewed cause to bow in reverence be- 
fore the Lord, who, by the powerful extendings of his 
humbling goodness, opened my way among friends, and I 
irust made the meetings profitable to us. The following 
winter I joined some friends in a family visit to some part 
of our meeting, in w4iich exercise, the pure influence of 
Divine love, made our visits reviving. 

5th of 5th mo. 1768. I left home under the humbling 
hand of the Lord, w^ith a certificate to visit some meetings 
in Maryland; and to proceed without a horse seemed 
clearest to me. 1 w^as at the quarterly meetings at Phila- 
delphia and Concord; whence I proceeded to Chester 
River; and crossing the bay, w^as at the yearly meeting at 
West River; I then returned to Chester River, and tak- 
ing a few meetings in my way, proceeded home. It was a 
journey of much inward waiting; and as my eye was to 
the Lord, way was several times opened to my humbling 
admiration, when things appeared very difficult. On my 
return, 1 felt a very comfortable relief of mind; having, 



128 THE JOURNAL OF 

through Divine help, labored in much plainness, both with 
friends selected, and in the more public meetings; so that 
1 trust the pure witness in many minds was reached. 

11th of 6th mo. 1769. There have been sundry cases 
of late years, within the limits of our monthly meeting, re- 
specting the exercising of pure righteousness towards the 
negroes, in which I have lived under a labor of heart, 
that equity might be steadily preserved. On this account 
I have had some close exercises among friends, in which, 
1 may thankfully say, 1 find peace. And as my medita- 
tions have been on universal love, my own conduct in time 
past became of late very grievous to me. As persons set- 
ting negroes free in our province, are bound by law to 
maintain them, in case they have need of relief; some in 
the time of my youth, who scrupled to keep slaves for term 
of life, were wont to detain their young negroes in their 
service, without wages, till they were thirty years of age. 
With this custom I so far agreed, that being joined with 
another friend, in executing the will of a deceased friend, 
I once sold a negro lad till he might attain the age of thirty 
years, and applied the money to the use of the estate. 

With abasement of heart I may now say, that some- 
times as I have sat in a meeting, with my heart exercised 
towards that awful Being, who respecteth not persons nor 
colors, and have thought upon this lad, I have felt that 
all was not clear in my mind respecting him; and as I 
have attended to this exercise, and fervently sought the 
Lord, it hath appeared to me that I should make some res- 
titution, but in what way I saw not till lately: when be- 
ing under some concern that I might be resigned to go oh 
a visit to some part of the West Indies; and under close 
engagement of spirit seeking to the Lord for counsel here- 
in, the aforesaid transaction came heavily upon me, and my 
mind, for a time, was covered w^ith darkness and sorrow. 
Under this sore affliction, my heart was softened to receive 
instruction: and I now first perceived, that as T had 
been one of the two executors, who had sold this lad for 
nine years longer than is common for our own children to 
serve, so I should now ofler part of my substance to re- 
deem the last half of the nine years; but as the tim.e was 



JOHN WOOLMAN. 129 

not yet come, I executed a bond, binding myself and my 
executors, to pay to the man to whom he was sold, what 
to candid men might appear equitable, for the last four and 
a half years of his time, in case the said youth should be 
living, and in a condition likely to provide comfortably for 
himself. 

9lh of 10th mo. My heart hath often been deeply af- 
flicted under a feeling, that the standard of pure righteous- 
ness is not lifted up to the people by us, as a society, in 
that clearness which it might have been, had we been as 
faithful as we ought to be to the teachings of Christ. And 
as my mind hath been inward to the Lord, the pu- 
rity of Christ's government hath been opened to my un- 
derstanding; and I have believed, in the opening of uni- 
versal love, that where a people who are convinced of the 
truth of the inward teachings of Christ, are active in put- 
ting laws in execution, which are not consistent uilh pure 
wisdom, it hath a necessary tendency to bring dimness over 
their minds. My heart having been thus exercised for 
several years, with a tender sympathy towards my fellovv^ 
members, I have within a few months past expressed my 
concern on this subject, in several meetings for discipline. 



CHAPTER X. 
1769—1770. 

Bodily indisposition. — Exercise of his mind for the good of the peo- 
ple in the West Indies. — Communicates to friends his concern to visit 
some of those islands. — Preparations to embark. — Considerations on. the 
trade to the West Indies. — Release fro77i his concern and return home. — 
Religious engagements. — Sickness and exercise of his mind therein. 

12th of 3rd mo. 1769. Having for some years past 
dieted myself on account of a lump gathering on my nose, 
under which I grew weak in body, and was not of ability 
to travel by land as heretofore; I was at times i^wored to 
look with awfulness towards the Lord, before whom are all 
my ways, who alone hath the power of life and death; and 
to feel thankfulness raised in me for this his fatherly chas- 



iSO tHEJOURNALOP 

tiseraent, believing, that if I was truly humbled under it, 
all would work for good. While under this bodily weak- 
ness, my mind was at times exercised for my fellow-crea- 
tures in the West Indies, and I grew jealous over myself, 
lest the disagreeableness of the prospect should hinder me 
from obediently attending thereto; for though I knew not 
that the Lord required me to go there, yet I believed that 
resignation was now called for in that respect. Feeling a 
danger o not being wholly devoted to him, I was fre- 
quently engaged to watch unto prayer, that I might be 
preserved; and upwards of a year having passed, as I one 
day walked in a solitary wood, my mind being covered 
with awfulness, cries were raised in me to my merciful fa- 
ther, that he would graciously keep me in faithfulness; and 
it then settled on my mind, as a duty, to open my condi- 
tion to friends at our [nonthly meeting; which Fdid soon 
after as follows: 

'' An exercise hath attended me for some time past, 
and of late hath been more weighty upon me, which is, 
that I believe it is required of me to be resigned to go on- 
a visit to some parts of the West Indies." In the quar- 
terly and general spring meeting, I found no clearness to 
express any thing further, than that I believed resignation 
herein was required of me. Having obtained certificates 
irom all the said meetings, I felt like a sojourner at my out- 
ward habitation, and kept free from worldly encumbrances; 
and 1 was often bowed in spirit before the Lord, with in- 
ward breathings to Efim, that I might be rightly directed. 
1 may here note, that the circumstance before related of 
my having, when young, joined with another executor in 
selling a negro lad till he might attain the age of thirty 
years, was now the cause of much sorrow to me; and 
after having settled matters relating to this youth, I provid- 
ed a sea-store and bed, and things for the voyage. Hear- 
ing of a vessel likely to sail from Philadelphia for Barba- 
does, I spake with one of the owners at Burlington, and 
soon after went to Philadelphia on purjjose to speak to him 
again. He told me there was a friend in town who was 
part owner of the said vessel. I felt no inclination to 
speak with the latter, but returned home. A while after I 



JOHN ^V L M A N . 131 

took leave of my family; and going to Philadelphia, had 
some weighty conversation with the first-mentioned owner, 
and showed him a writing, as follows: 

" On the 25th of 11th mo. 1769. as an exercise, with 
respect to a visit to Barbadoes, hath been weighty on my 
mind, I may express some of the trials which have attend- 
ed me; under which I have at times rejoiced, that I have 
felt my own self-will subjected. 

'" Some years ago I retailed rum, sugar, and molasses, 
the fruits of the labor of slaves; but had not then much 
concern about them, save only that the rum might be used 
in moderation; nor was this concern so v\^eightily attended 
to as I DOW believe it ought to have been. Having of late 
years been further inform.ed respecting the oppressions too 
generally exercised in these islands, and thinking often on 
the dangers there are in connexions of interest and fellow- 
ship with the works of darkness, Ephes. v. 11.; I have 
felt an increasing concern to be wholly given up to the 
leadings of the Holy Spirit; and it hath seemed right that 
my small gain from this branch of trade, should be applied 
in promoting righteousness on the earth. This was the 
first motion towards a visit to Barbadoes. I believed also 
that part of my outward substance should be applied in 
paying my passage, if I went, and providing things in a 
lowly way for my subsistence; but when the time drew 
near, in which I believed it required of me to be in readi- 
ness, a difficulty arose v^-'hich hath been a continual trial for 
some months past; under which I have, with abasement of 
mind from day to day, sought the Lord for instruction, 
having often had a feeling of the condition of one formerly, 
who bewailed himself because the Lord hid his face from 
him. During ihese exercises my heart hath often been 
contrite, and I have had a tender feeling of the temptations 
of my fellow-creatures, laboring under expensive customs 
not agreeable to the simplicity that ''there is in Christ," 
2 Cor. ii. 3. and sometimes in the renewings of gospel 
love, I have been helped to minister to others. 

" That which hath so closely engaged my mind, in seek- 
ing to the Lord for instruction, is, whether, after the full 
information I have had of the oppression which the slaves 



132 THE JOURNAL OF 

lie under, who raise the West India produce, which 1 have 
gained by reading a caution and warning to Great Britain 
and her colonies, written by Anthony Benezet, it is right 
for tne to take passage in a vessel, employed in the West 
India trade. 

'' To trade freely with oppressors, without laboring to 
dissuade them from such unkind treatment, and to seek 
for gain by such traffic, tends, 1 believe, to make them 
more easy respecting their conduct, than they would be, 
if the cause of universal righteousness was humbly and 
firmly attended to, by those in general with whom they 
have commerce; and that complaint of the Lord by his 
prophet, *' They have strengthened the hands of the wick- 
ed," hath very often revived in my mind. I may here add 
some circumstances which occurred to me before I had 
any prospect of a visit there. David longed for some 
water in a well beyond an army of Philistines, who were 
at war with Israel; and some of his men, to please him, 
ventured their lives in passing through this army, and 
brought that w ater. 

'' It doth not appear that the Israelites were then scarce 
of water, but rather that David gave way to delicacy of 
taste; and having reflected on the danger to which these 
men had been exposed, he considered this water as their 
blood, and his heart smote him that he could not drink it, 
but he poured it out to the Lord. The oppression of the 
slaves, which I have seen in several journeys southward on 
this continent, and the report of their treatment in the West 
Indies, have deeply affected me; and a care to live in the 
spirit of peace, and minister no just cause of offence to 
my fellow-creatures, having from time to time livingly re- 
vived in my mind; I have for some years past, declined 
to gratify my palate with those sugars. 

*' I do not censure my brethren in these things; but I 
believe the Father of Mercies, to whom all mankind by 
creation are equally related, hath heard the groans of this 
oppressed people, and that he is preparing some to have 
a tender feeling of their condition. Trading in, or the 
frequent use of any produce known to be raised by the la- 
bor of those who are under such lamentable oppression, 



JOHN W L M A N . 133 

hath appeared to be a subject which may hereafter require 
the more serious consideration of the humble followers of 
Christ, the Prince of peace. 

'' After long and mournful exercise, I am now free to 
mention how things have opened in my mind, with desires 
that if it may please the Lord further to open his will to 
any of his children in this matter, they may faithfully fol- 
low Him in such further mauifestation. 

'' The number of those who decline the use of West 
India produce, on account of the hard usage of the slaves 
who raise ii, appears small, e^eu among people truly 
pious; and the labors in Cliristian love on that subject, 
of those who do, are not very extensive. Were the 
trade from this continent to the West Indies to be stopped 
at once, I believe many there would suffer for want of 
bread. Did we, on this continent, and the inhabitants of 
the West indies, generally dwell in pure righteousness, I 
believe a small trade between us might be right. Under 
these considerations, when the thoughts of wholly declin- 
ing the use of trading vessels, and of trying to hire a ves- 
sel to go under ballast, have arisen in my mind, T have be- 
lieved that tlie labors in gospel loye, hitherto bestowed in 
the cause of universal righteousness, are not arrived at that 
height. If the trade to the West Indies were no more 
than was consistent with pure Vv^isdom, I believe the pas- 
sage money would, for good reasons, be higher than it is 
now; and therefore, under deep exercise of mind, I have 
believed that I should not take advantage of this great 
trade and small j)assage money; but, as a testimony in 
favor of less trading, should p-ay more than is common 
for others to pay, if I go at this time." 

The first mentioned owner having read the paper, went 
with me to the other owner; who also read over ihe paper, 
and we had some solid conversation, under which I felt 
myself bowed in reverence before the Most High. At 
length one of them asked me if I would go and see the 
vessel. But not having clearness in my mind to go, I went 
to my lodging, and retired in private under great exercise 
of mind; and my tears were poured out before the Lord, 
with inward cries that He would graciously help me unde 

12 



134 THE JOURNAL OF 

these trials. I believe my mind was resigned, but I did 
not feel clearness to proceed; and my own weakness, and 
the necessity of Divine instruction, were impressed upon 
me. 

I was for a time as one who knew not what to do, and 
was tossed as in a tempest; under which affliction, the doc- 
trine of Christ, " Take no thought for the morrow," arose 
livingly before me, and I was fiivored to get into a good 
degree of stillness. Having been near two days in town, I 
believed my obedience to my lieavenly Father consisted in 
returning homeward ; I therefore went over among friends 
on the Jersey shore, and tarried till the morning on which 
the vessel was appointed to sail. As I lay in bed the lat- 
ter part of that night, my mind was comforted; and I felt 
what I esteemed a fiesh confirmation, that it was the 
Lord's will that I should pass through some further exer- 
cises near home : so I went thither, and still felt like a 
sojourner with my family. In the fresh spring of pure love, 
I had some labors in a private way among frfends on a 
sulrject relating to truth's testimony, under which I had 
frequently been exercised in heart for some j'ears. I re- 
member, as I walked on the road under this exercise, that 
passage in Ezekiel can^e fresh upon me : " Whithersoever 
their faces were turned, thither they went." And I was 
graciously helped to discharge my duty, in the fear and 
dread of the Almighty. 

In the course of a few weeks, it pleased the Lord to 
visit me with a pleurisy ; and after I had lain a few days, 
and felt the disorder very grievous, I was tlioughtful how 
it might end. I had of late, through various exercises^ 
been much weaned from the pleasant things of this life; 
and I now thought, if it were the Lord's will to put an end 
to my labors, and graciously to receive me into the arms of 
his mercy, death would be acceptable to me; but if it 
were his will further to refine me under affliction, and to 
make me in any degree useful in his church, I desired not 
to die. I [nay with thankfulness say, that in this case I 
felt resignedness wrought in me, and had no inclination to 
send for a doctor; believing, if it were the Lord's will 
through outward means to raise me up, some sympathizing 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 135 

friends would be sent to minister to me; which accordingly 
was the case. But though I was carefully attended, yet 
the disorder was at times so heavy, that I had no expecta- 
tion of recovery. One night in particular my bodily dis- 
tress was great; my feet grew cold, and the cold Increased 
up my legs towards my body; at that time I had no incli- 
nation to ask my nurse to apply any thing warm to my 
feet, expecting ray end was near. After I had lain near 
ten hours in this condition, I closed my eyes, thinking 
whether I might now be delivered out of the body; but, in 
these awful moments, my mind was livingly opened to be- 
hold the church; and strong engagements were begotten in 
me, for the everlasting well-being of my fellow-creatures. 
I felt in the spring of pure love, that I might remain some 
time longer in the body, to fill up according to my meas- 
ure, that which remains of the afflictions of Christ, and to 
labor for the good of the church; after which I requested 
ray nurse to apply warmth to my feet, and I revived. The 
next night, feeling a weighty exercise of spirit, and having 
a solid friend sitting up with me, I requested him to write 
what I said, which he did as follows: 

'' Fourth day of the first month, 1770, about five in the 
morning. — I have seen in the Light of the Lord, that the 
day is approaching, when the man that is most wise in hu- 
man policy shall be the greatest fool; and the arm that is 
mighty to support injustice shall be broken to pieces; the 
enemies of righteousness shall make a terrible rattle, and 
shall mightily torment one another; for he that is omnipo- 
tent is rising up to judgment, and will plead the cause of 
the oppressed: and He commanded me to open the vision." 

Near a week after this, feeling my mind livingly opened, 
I sent for a neighbor, who, at my request, wrote as follows: 

*' The place of prayer is a precious habitation; for I 
now saw that the prayers of the saints were precious in- 
cense? and a trumpet was given to me, that I might sound 
forth this language; that the children might hear it, and be 
invited together to this precious habitation, where the 
prayers of the saints, as precious incense, arise before the 
throne of God and the Lamb, — I saw this habitation to be 
safe; — to be inwardly quiet when there were great stirrings 
^nd commotions in the world. 



136 THE JOURNAL OF 

" Prayer, at this day, in pure resignation, is a precious 
place: the trumpet is sounded; llie call goes forth to the 
church, thai she gather to the place of pure inward prayer; 
and her habitation is safe." 



CHAPTER XI, 

1772. 

EmharJcs at Chester, wiih Samuel Emlen,in a ship bound for Lon- 
don. — Exercise of mind respecting; the hardships of the sailors. — Co7i- 
siderations on the dangers of training youtli to a seafaring life. — 
Thoughts during a storm at sea. — Arrival in London. 

Having been some time under a religious concern to 
prepare for crossing the seas, in order to visit friends m 
the northern parts of England, and more particnhirly in 
Yorkshire; after consideration, I ihoiiglit ii expedient to 
inform friends of ii, at our monthly meeting at Binliigton, 
who, having unity with me therein, gave me a certificate. 
I afterwards communicated the same to our quarterly meet- 
ing, and they likewise certified their concurrence. Some 
time after, at the general spring tneeling of ministers and 
elders, I thought it my duty to acquaint them with the re- 
ligious exercise which attended my mind; and they likewise 
signifit'd their unity therewith by a certificate, dated the 
24th of ord mo. 1772, directed to friends in Great Britain. 

In the 4lh month following, I thought the time was come 
for me to make some inquiiy for a suitable conveyance; 
and as my concern was principally towards the northern 
parts of England, it seemed most proper to go in a vessel 
bound to Liverpool or Whitehaven. Wiiile I was at 
Philadelphia, deliberating on this subject, I was informed 
that my beloved friend Samuel Kmlen, junior, intended to 
go to London, and had taken a passage lor himself iu the 
cabin of the ship culled the Mary and Elizabeth of which 
James Sparks was master-, and John Head of the city of 
Philadelphia, one of the owners; and feeling a draught in 
my mind towards the steerage of the same ship, I went 
first and opened to Sauuiel the feeling I had concerning it. 



^ H N W 9 L M A N . 137 

My beloved friend wept when I spake lo him, and ap- 
peared glad that I had thoughts of going in the vessel with 
him, though my prospect was toward the steerage; and he 
offering to go with me, we went on board, first into the 
cabin, a commodious room, and then into the steerage; 
where we sat down on a chest, the sailors being busy about 
us; the owner of the ship also came and sat down with us. 
My mind was turned towards Christ, the heavenly coun- 
sellor; and feeling at this time my own will subjected, my 
heart was contrite before him. A motion was made by 
the owner to go and sit in the cabin, as a place m-ore re- 
tired; but I felt easy to leave the ship, and making no 
agreement as to a passage in her; told the owner, if I took 
-a passage in the ship, I believed it would be in the steer- 
age; but did not say much as to my exercise in that case. 

After 1 went to my lodgings, and the case was a little 
linown in town, a friend laid before me the great inconve- 
nience attending a passage in the steerage; which for a 
time appeared very discouraging to me. 

I soon after went to bed, and my mind was under a 
deep exercise before the Lord, whose helping hand was 
manifested to me as I slept that night, and his love 
strengthened my heart. In the morning, I went with two 
friends on board the vessel again; and after a short time 
spent therein, I went with Samuel Eralen to the house of 
the owner, to whom, in the hearing of Samuel only, I 
opened my exercise in relation to a scruple T felt with re- 
gard to a passage in the cabin, in substance as follows: 

'^ That on the outside of that part of the ship where 
the cabin was, I observed sundry sorts of carved work and 
imagery; that in the cabin I observed some superfluity of 
workmanship of several sorts; and that according to the 
ways of men's reckoning, the sum of money to be paid 
for a passage in that apartment, has some relation to the 
expense of furnishing it, to please the minds of such as 
give way to a conformity to this world; and that in this-, 
as in other cases, the monies received from the passengers 
are calculated to defray the cost of these superfluities, as 
well as the other expenses of their passage. I therefore 

12* 



138 THEJOURNALOr 

felt a scruple with regard to paying my money to be 
applied to such purposes." 

As my mind was now opened, I told the owner that I 
had, at several times in my travels, seen great oppressions 
on this continent, at which my heart had heen much af- 
fected, and hrought into a feeling of the state of the suf- 
ferers; and having many limes been engaged in the fear 
and love of God, lo labor with tlio^e under whom the op- 
pressed have been borne down and afflicted, I have of- 
ten perceived, that with a view to get riches, and to pro- 
vide estates for children, that they may live conformably 
to the customs and honors of this world, many are en- 
tangled in the spirit of oppression; and the exercise of my 
soul had been such, that I coidd not find peace in joining 
in any thing, which I saw was against that wisdom which 
is pure. 

After this I agreed for a passage in the steerage; and 
hearing that Joseph White had desired to see me, I went 
to his house; and next day home, where I tarried two 
nights. Early the next morning, I parted with my family, 
under a sense of the humbling hand of God upon me, and 
going to Philadelphia, had an oppoitunily with several of 
my beloved friends, who appeared to be concerned for me, 
on account of the unf)leasant situation of that part of the 
vessel in which I was likely to lodge. In these op;.or- 
tunities luy mind, through tlie mercies of the Lord, was 
kept low, in an inward wailing for his help; and friends 
having expressed their desire that 1 might have a more 
convenient place than the steerage, did not urge it, but 
appeared disposed to leave me to the Lord. 

Having staid two nights at Philadelphia, I went the next 
day to Derby monthly meeting, where through the strength 
of Divine love, my heart was enlarged towards the youth 
there present, under which I was helped to labor in some 
tenderness of spirit. I lodged at William Horn's, and af- 
terwards went to Chester, whei-e I met with Samuel Em- 
len, and we went on board, 1st of 5ih mo. 1772. As I 
sat alone on the deck, I felt a satisfactory evidence that 
my proceedings were not in my own will, but under the 
power of the cross of Christ. 



JOHN W L M A N . 13^ 

7t.h of 5(1] mo. We have had rough weather mostly since 
I came on board, and the passengers, James Rej-nolds, 
John Till Adams, Sarah Logan and her hired maid, and 
Jo]in Bispham, all sea-sick at times; from which sick- 
ness through the tender mercies of my heavenly Father, 
I have been preserved, my afflictions now being of ano- 
ther kind. There appeared an openness in the minds of 
the master of the ship and in the cabin passengers towards 
me; we are often together on the deck, and sometimes in 
the cabin. My mind, through the merciful help of the 
Lord, hath been preserved in a good degree watchful and 
quiet; for which 1 have great cause to be thankful. 

As my lodging in the steerage, now near a week, hath, 
afforded me sundry opportunities of seeing, hearing, and 
feehng, with respect to the life and spirit of many poor 
sailors; an exercise of soul hath attended me, in regard to 
placing out children and youth, where they ojay be likely to 
be exampled and instructed in the pure fear of the Lord. 

Being much among the seamen, I have, from a motion 
of love, taken sundry opportunities with one of them at a 
time, and have in free conversation, labored to turn their 
minds towards the fear of the Lord. This day we had a 
meeting in the cabin, where my heart was contrite under a 
feeling of Divine love. 

I believe a communication with different parts of the 
world b}^ sea, is at times consistent with the will of our 
heavenly Father; and to educate some youth in the practice 
of sailing, I believe may be right; but how lamentable is 
the present corruption oi the world! How in.pure are the 
channels through which trade is conducted! How great 
is the danger to which poor lads are exposed, when placed 
on sl)ip-board to learn the art of sailing! Five lads, train- 
ing up for the seas, were on board this ship; two of them 
were brought up in our society, and the other, by name 
James Naylor, is a member, to v;hose father James Naylor, 
mentioned in Sewel's history, appears to have been uncle. 
I often feel a tenderness of heart towards these poor lads; 
and at times look at them as though they were my children 
according to the flesh. 

Oh that all may take heed and beware of covetousness! 



140 THE JdtJkNAt Of 

O that all may learn of Christ, ivhb wa§ meek and low of 
heart. Then, in faithfully following Him, he will teach us 
to be content with food and raiment, without respect to the 
customs or honors of this world. Men thus redeemed, 
will feel a tender concern for their fellow-creatures, and a 
desire that those in the lowest stations may be assisted and 
encouraged; and where owners of ships attain to the perfect 
law of liberty, and are doers of the Word, these will be 
blessed in their deeds. 

A ship at sea commonly sails all night, and the seamen 
take their watches four hours at a time. Rising to work 
in the night, it is not commonly pleasant in any case; but 
in dark rainy nights it is very disagreeable, even though 
each man were furnished with all conveniences. If after 
having been on deck several hours in the night, they come 
down into the steerage soaking wet, and are so close- 
ly stowed that proper convenience for change of garments 
is not easily come at, but for want of proper room their 
wet garments are thrown in heaps, and sometimes, through 
much crowding, are trodden under foot, in going to their 
lodgings and getting out of them, and it is difficult, at times, 
for each to find his own; here are trials on the poor sai- 
lors. 

Now as I have been with them in my lodge, my heart 
hath often yearned for them, and tender desires have been 
raised in me, that all owners and masters of vessels may 
dwell in the love of God, and therein act uprightly; and by 
seeking less for gain, and looking carefully to their ways, 
they may earnestly labor to remove all cause of provoca- 
tion from the poor seamen, so that they may neither fret 
nor use excess of strong drink; for indeed tlie poor crea- 
tures, in the wet and cold, seem to apply at times to strong 
drink, to supply the want of other convenience. Great 
reformation is wanting in the world, and the necessity of it, 
among those who do business on great waters, hath at this 
time been abundantly opened before me. 

8th of 5th mo. This morning the clouds gathered., the 
wind blew strong from the south-east, and before noon so 
increased, that sailing appeared dangerous. The seamen 
then bound up some of their sails, and took down others, 



JOHN WOOLMAN. 141 

and the storm increasii-'g, they put the dead hghts, so call- 
ed, into the cabin-windows, and liglited a lamp as at night. 
The wind now blew vehemently, and the sea wrought to 
that degree, that an awful seriousness prevailed in the 
cabin, in which I spent I believe, about seventeen hours; 
for the cabin passengers had given me frequent invitations, 
and I thought the poor wet toiling seamen, had need of all 
the room in the crowded steerage. They now ceased 
from sailing, and put the vessel in the posture called 
jyiij^ to. 

My mind during this tempest, through the gracious as- 
sistance of the Lord, was preserved in a good degree of 
resignation; and at times I expressed a few words in his 
love to my ship-mates, in regard to the all-sufficiency of 
Him who formed the great deep, and \^'hose care is so ex- 
tensive, that a sparrow falls not witiout his notice; and 
thus, in a tender frame of mind, I spoke to t.hem of the 
necessity of our yielding, in true obedience, to the instruc- 
tions of our heavenly Father, who sometimes through ad- 
versities intendeth our refinement. 

About eleven at night I went out on the deck. The 
sea wrought exceedingly, and the high foaming waves 
round about, had in some sort the appearance of fire, but 
did not give much if any light. The sailor at the helm said 
he lately saw a corposant at the head of the mast. I ob- 
served that the master of the ship ordered the carpenter to 
keep on the deck; and though he said little, I apprehended 
his care was, that the carpenter with his axe might be in 
readiness in case of any extremity. Soon after this the 
vehemency of the wind abated, and before morning they 
again put the ship under sail. 

lOtli of 5 mo. It being the first day of the week, and 
fine weather, we had a meeting in the cabin, at which most 
of the seamen were present; this meeting was to me a 
strengthening time. 13th. As I continue to lodge in the 
steerage, I feel an openness this morning to express some- 
thing further of the state of my mind, in respect to poor 
lads bound apprentice to learti the art of sailing. As I 
believe sailing is of use in the woild, a labor of soul at- 
tends me, that the pure counsel of truth may be humbly 



142 THE 'JOURNAL OF 

waited for in this case, by all concerned In the business of 
the seas. A pious father, whose mind is exercised for the 
everlasting welfare of his child, may not, with a peaceable 
mind, place him out to an employment among a people, 
whose common course of life is manifestly corrupt and 
profane. Great is the present defect among seafaring men,- 
in regard to virtue and piety; and by reason of an abundant 
traffic, and many ships being used for war, so many people 
are employed on the sea, that the subject of placing lads 
to this employment appears very weighty. 

When I remember the saying of the Most High througb 
his prophet, " This people have I formed for myself; they 
shall show forth my praise:" and think of placing children 
among such to learn the practice of sailing, the consisten- 
cy of it with a pious education, seems to rne like that men- 
tioned by the prophet, " There is no answer from God." 

Profane examples are very corrupting, and very forcible. 
And as njy mind day after day, and night after night, hath 
been affected with a sympathizing tenderness towards 
poor children, who are put to the employment of sailors, 
I have sometimes had weighty conversation with the 
sailors in the steerage, who were mostly respectful to me, 
and became more so the longer I was with them. They 
mostly appeared to take kindly what I said to them; but 
their minds were so deeply impressed with the ahnost uni- 
versal depravity among sailors, that the poor creatures in 
their answers to me, have revived in my remembrance that 
of the degenerate Jews a little before the captivity, as re- 
peated by .Jeremiah the prophet, " There is no hope." 

Now under this exercise, a sense of the desire of out- 
ward gain prevailing among us, felt grievous; and a strong 
call to the professed followers of Christ was raised in me, 
that all may take heed, lest through loving this present 
w^orld, they be found in a continued neglect of duty, with 
respect to a faithful labor for reformation. 

To silence every motion proceeding from the love of 
money, and humbly to wait upon God to know his will con^. 
cerning us, have appeared necessary. He alone is able to, 
strengthen us to dig deep, to remove all which lies be-- 
tween us and the safe foundation, and so to direct us in o\\i^ 



JOHN WOOLMAN. 143 

outward employments, that pure universal love may shine 
forth in our proceedings. Desires arising from the spirit 
of truth, are pure desires; and when a mind divinely open- 
ed towards a young generation, is made sensible of cor- 
rupting examples, powerfully working, and extensively 
spreading among them, how moving is the prospect. In a 
world of dangers and difficulties, like a desolate thorny 
wilderness, how precious, how^ comfortable, how safe, are 
the leadings of Christ the good shepherd, who said, "I 
know my sheep, and am known of mine." 

16th of 6 mo. Wind for several days past often high, 
what the sailors call squally, with a rough sea, and frequent 
rains. This last night has been a very trying one to the 
poor seamen; the water the most part of the night running 
over the main deck, and sometimes breaking waves came 
on the quarter deck. The latter part of the night, as I lay 
in bed, my mind was humbled under the power of Divine 
love; and resignedness to the great Creator of the earth 
and the seas, was renewedly wrought in me, and his father- 
ly care over his children felt precious to my soul. I was 
now desirous to embrace every opportunity of being in- 
wardly acquainted with the hardships and difficulties of my 
fellow-creatures, and to labor in his love for the spreading 
of pure righteousness on the earth. Opportunities were 
frequent of hearing conversation among the sailors, re- 
specting the voyages to Africa, and the manner of bringing^ 
the deeply oppressed slaves into our Islands. They are 
frequently brought on board the vessels, in chains and fet- 
ters, with hearts loaded with grief, under the apprehension 
of miserable slavery; so that my mind was frequently en- 
gaged to meditate on these things. 

17th of 5 mo. and 1st of the week. We had a meeting 
in the cabin, to which the seamen generally came. My 
spirit was contrite before the Lord, whose love at this time 
affected my heart. In the afternoon I felt a tender sym- 
pathy of soul with my poor wife and family left behind; in 
which state my heart was enlarged in desires, that they may 
walk in that humble obedience, wherein the everlasting 
Father may be their guide and support through all their 
difficulties in this world; and a sense of that gracious as- 



144 THE JOURNAL OF 

sistance, through which my mind hath been strengthened 
to take up the cross and leave them, to travel in the love 
of truth, hath begotten thankfulness in my heart to our 
great Helper. 

24th of 5 mo. A clear pleasant morning. As I sat on 
deck, I felt a reviving in my nature, which had been weak- 
ened through much rainy weather and high winds, and be- 
ing shut up in a close unhealthy air. Several nights of 
late I have felt my breathing difficult; and a little after the 
rising of the second watch, which is about midnight, I 
have got up, and stood near an hour, with my face near 
the hatchway, to get the fresh air at the small vacancy un- 
dei" the hatch-door, w'hich is commonly shut down, partly 
to keep out rain, and sometimes to keep the breaking 
waves from dashing into the steerage. I may, with thank- 
fulness to the Father of Mercies acknowledge that, in my 
present weak state, m) mind hath been supportv^d to bear 
this affliction with patience; and I have looked at the pre- 
sent dispensation as a kindness from the great Father of 
mankind, who, in this my floating pilgrimage, is in some de- 
gree bringing me to feel what many thousands of my fel- 
low creatures often suffer in a greater degree. 

My appetite failing, the trial hath been the heavier; and 
I have felt tender breathings in my soul after God, the 
fountain of comfort, whose inward help hath supplied, at 
times, the want of outward convenience: 'and strong de- 
sires have attended me, that his family, who are acquainted 
with the movings of his Holy Spirit, may be so redeemed 
from the love of money, and from that spirit in which men 
seek honor one of another, that in all business, by sea or 
land, they may constantly keep in view \he coming of his 
kingdom on earth, as it is in heaven; and, by faithfully fol- 
lowing this safe guide, may show forth examples tending 
to Jead out of that under which the creation groans. This 
day we had a meeting in the cabin, in which I was favored 
in some degree to experience the fulfilling of that saying 
of the prophet — *' The Lord hath been a strength to the 
poor, a strength to the needy in their distress;" for which 
my heart is bowed in thankfulness before Him. 

28th 5 mo. Wet w'eather of late and small winds, in- 



^ H N W L M A N . 145 

el'iniiig to calms. Our seamen cast a lead, I suppose 
about one huudred fathoms, but found no bottom. Foggy 
vveaiber tl)is morning. Through the kindness of the great 
Preserver of men, my mind remains quiet; and a degree 
of exercise from day to day attends me, that the pure 
peaceable government of Christ may spread and prevail 
among mankind. 

The leading of a young generation in that pure way, in 
which the vvisdoiu of liiis world haih no place; where pa- 
vents and tutvois, hnsnbly waiting for the heavenly Counsel- 
kor, may example them in the truth^ as it is in Jesus; hath 
for several days been the exercise of my mind. O, how 
safe, how quiet is that state, where the soul stands in pure 
obedience to the voice of Christ, and a watchful care is 
maintained, not to follow the voice of the stranger! Here 
Christ is felt to be our shepherd; and under his leading, 
people are brought to a stability: and Vvdiere he doth not 
•lead forward, we are bound in the bonds of pure love, to 
Btand still and w-ait upon Him, 

In the love of money, and in the wisdom of this world, 
business is proposed, then the urgency of affairs push for- 
ward, and tiie mind cannot in this state, discern the good 
and perfect will of God concerning us. The love of God 
is manifested in graciously calling us to come cut of that 
which stands in confusion; but if we bow not in the name 
of Jesus; if we give not up those prospects of gain, which, 
in the wisdom of this world, are open before us, but say 
n our hearts, "I must needs go on; and in going on, I 
liope to keep as near the purity of truth as the business be- 
I'ore me will admit of;" the mind remains entangled, and 
he shining of the light of life into the soul is obstructed. 

Surely the Lord calls to mourning and deep humiliation, 
that in his fear we may be instructed, and led safely through 
the great difficulties and perplexities in this present age. 
In an entire subjection of our wills, the Lord graciously 
opens a way for his people, where all their wants are bound- 
ed by his wisdom : and here we experience the substance 
of what Moses the prophet figured out in the water of sep- 
aration, as a purification from sin. 

Esau is mentioned as a child red all over, like a hairy 
13 



146 THE JOURNAL OF 

garment. In Esau is represented the natural will of man. 
In preparing the water of separation, a red heifer without 
blemish on which there had been no yoke, was to he slain, 
and her blood sprinkled by the priest seven tinies towards 
the tabernacle of the congregation: then lier skin, her (lesh, 
and all pertaining to her, was to be burnt without the camp; 
and of her ashes the water was prepared. Thus the cruci- 
fying of the old man, or natural will, is represented; and 
hence comes a separation frouj that cariial mind which is 
death. He who toucheth the dead body of a man, and 
purifieth not himself v^ith the water of sepai'ation, defileth 
the tabernacle of the Lord; he is unclean." — Num. xi:C. 
lo. 

If any through the love of gain, engage in business, 
wherein they dwell as among the tombs, and touch the 
bodies of those who are deed; should through the iniinite 
love of God, feel the power of the cross of Christ to cru- 
cify them to the world, and therein learn humbly to follow 
the Divine leader; here is the judgment of this world — 
here the prince of this world is cast out. The water of 
separation is felt^ and though we have been an:>ong the slain, 
and through the desire of gain, have touched the dead body 
of a manj yet, in the purifying love of Christ, we are 
washed in the water of separation; we are brought off from 
that business; from that gain, and from that fellowshipj 
which is not agreeable to his holy will. I have felt a re- 
newed confirmation in the time of this voyage, that the Lord, 
in his infinite love, is calling to his visited children, so to 
g^ve up all outward possessions, and means of getting 
treasures, that his Holy Spirit may have free course in 
their hearts, and direct them in all their proceedings. To 
feel the substance pointed at in this figure, man must know 
death, a? to Ins o^yn will. 

''No man can see God nnd live." This was spoken 
by the Almighty to Moses the prophet, and opened by our 
blessed Redeemer. As death comes on our own wills, 
and a new life is formed in us, the heart is purified, and 
prepared to understand clearly, " Blessed are the pure in 
heart, for they shall see God." In purity of heart, the 
mind is divinely opened to behold the nature of universal 



JOHN W L M A N . 147 

righteousness, or the righteousness of the kingdom of God. 
" No man haih seen the Father, save he that is of God, 
lie hath seen the Father." 

The natural mind is active about the things of this life; 
and in this natural activit}-, business is proposed, and a will 
is formed in us to go forward in it. And so long as this 
natural will remains unsubjected, so long there remains an 
obstruction to the clearness of Divine light operating in us; 
but when we love God with all our heart, and with all our 
strength, in this love, we love our neighbor as ourselves; 
and a tenderness of heart is felt towards all people for 
whom Ciirist ^ied, even those who, as to outward circum- 
stances, may be to us as the Jews were to the Samaritans. 
" Who is my neighbor"? See this question answered by 
our Savior, Luke x. oO. In this love we can say, that 
.Tesus is the Lord; and in this reformation in our souls, 
manifested in a full reformation of our lives, whereio all 
things are new, and ail things are of God, 2 Cor. v. 18; 
the desire of gain is subjected. 

When employment is honestly followed in the light of 
truth, and people become diligent in business, "fervent in 
spirit, serving the Lord" — Rom. xii. 11, the meaning of the 
name is opened to us: " This is the name by which he shall 
be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS." 
— .ler. xxiii. 6. Oh how precious is this name! it is like 
ointment poured out. The chaste virgins are in love with 
the Redeemer; and for promoting his peaceable kingdom 
in the world, are content to endure hardness like good sol- 
diers; and are so separated in spirit from the desire of 
ricl^es. that in their employments they become extensively 
careful to give no offence, either to Jew or Heathen, or to 
tlie church of Christ. 

31st of 5 mo. and 1st of the week. We had a meet- 
ing in the cabin, with nearly all the ship's company, the 
whole being near thirty. In this meeting the Lord in mer- 
cy favored us with the extending of his love. 

2nd of 6 mo. Last evening the seamen found bottom, 
at about seventy fathoms. • This morning, a fair wind and 
pleasant. I sat on deck, my heart was overcome with the 
love of Christ, and melted into contrition before him. In 



148 THE JOURNAL OP 

this state, the prospect of that work to which T found my 
mind drawn, when in my native land, being in some degree 
opened before me, I felt like a little child; and my cries 
were put up to my heavenly Father for preservation, that 
in an humble dependence on Him, my soul might be 
strengthened in his love, and kept inwardly wailing for his 
counsel. This afternoon we saw that part of England 
called the Lizard. 

Some fowls yet remained of those the passengers took 
for their sea-store. I believe about fourteen perished in 
the storms at sea, by the weaves breaking over the quarter- 
deck; and a considerable number with sickness, at differeni 
times. I observed the cocks crew as w^e came down the 
Delaware, and while we were near tbeknd; but afterwards 
I think 1 did not hear one of them crow till we came near 
the English coast, when they again crowed a few times. In 
observing their dull appearance at sea, and the pining sick- 
ness of some of them, I often remembered the Fountain 
of goodness, who gave being to all creatures, and whose 
love extends to caring for the sparrows. I believe where 
the love of God is verily perfected, and the true spirit of 
government watchfully attended to, a tenderness towards 
all creatures made subject to us will be experienced; and 
a care felt in us, that we do not lessen that sweetness of 
life in the animal creation, which the great Creator intends 
for them under our government. 

4th of 6 mo. Wet weather, high winds, and so dark 
that we could see but a little way. I perceived our sea- 
men were apprehensive of the danger of missing the chan- 
nel, which I understood was narrow. In a while it grew 
lighter; and they saw the land, and knew where we were. 
Thus the Father of mercies was pleased to try us with the 
sight of dangers; and then graciously, from time to time, 
deliver us from them: thus sparing our lives, that in hu- 
mility and reverence we might walk before Him, and put 
our trust in Him. About noon a pilot came off from Do- 
ver, where mv beloved friend Samuel Emlen went on 
shore, and thence to London, about seventy-two miles by 
land; but I felt easy in staying in the ship. 

7th of 6 mo. and 1st of the week. A clear morning; 



J II N AV L M A N * 149; 

we lay at anchor for the tide, and had a parting meethig 
with the ship's company, in which my heart was enlarged 
in a fervent concern for them, that they may come to ex- 
perience salvation through Christ. Had a head-wind up 
the Thames; lay sometimes at anchor; saw many ships 
passing, and some at anchor near; and I had large oppor- 
tunity of feeling the spirit in which the poor bewildered 
sailors too generally live; that lamentable degeneracy, 
which so much prevails in the people employed on the 
seas, so affected my heart, that I cannot easily convey the 
feeling I had to another. 

The present state of the seafaring life in general, appears 
so opposite to that of a pious education; so full of cor- 
ruption, and extreme alienation from God; so full of the 
most dangerous examples to young people, that in 
looking towards a young generation, I feel a care for 
them, that they may have an education different from the 
present one of lads at sea; and that all of us, who are 
acquainted with the pure gospel spirit, may lay this case 
to heart, may remember the lamentable corruptions which 
attend the conveyance of merchandise across the seas, and 
so abide in the love of Christ, that being delivered from the 
entangling expenses of a curious, delicate, and luxurious 
life, we m.ay learn contentment with a little; and promote 
the seafaring life no further than that spirit, which leads in- 
to all truth, attends us in out proceedings. 



CHAPTER XII. 



1772. 

Attends ike yearly^meelin^ in London — Tlien proceeds towards York^ 
shire — Visits quarterly and other meetings in the counties of Hertford, 
Warwick, Oxford, JVottingham, York, and Westmoreland. — Returns 
io Yorkshire — Instructive observations and letters. Hears of the disease 
of William Hunt. — Some account of him. — The aidJior's last illness and 
death at York. 

On the Sth of 6 mo. 1772, we landed at London, and 
I went straightway to the yearly meeting of ministei's and 

13* 



tSO THE JOURNAL OF 

elders, which had been gathered, T suppose, about half an 
hour. 

In this meeting my mind was humbly contrite. In the 
afternoon the meeting for business was opened, which by 
adjournments held near a week. In these meetings I often 
felt a living concern for the establishment of friends in the 
pure life of truth. My heart was enlarged in the meetings 
of ministers, that for business, and in several meetings for 
public worship; and I felt my mind united in true love, to 
the faithful laborers now gathered at this yearly meeting. 
On the 15th I went to a quarterly meeting at Hertford. 

1st of 7 mo, I have been at quarterly meetings at Sher- 
rington, Noithampton, Banbury, and Shipton; and have 
had sundry meetings between. My mind haih been bow- 
ed under a sense of Divine goodness manifested among us; 
my heart hath been often enlarged in true love, both among 
ministers and elders, and in public meetings; and through 
the Lord's goodness, I believe it hath been a fresh visita- 
tion to many, in particular to the youth. 

I7ih. I was this dry at Birniingham, I have been at 
meetings at Coventry, Warwick, in Oxfordshire, and sun- 
dry other places, and have felt the humbling hand of the 
Lord upon me; but through his tender mercies I find peace 
in the laboi^ I have gone through. 

2Gth. I have continued travelling northward, visiting 
meetings. Was this day at Nottingham; the forenoon 
meeting was especially, through Divine love, a heart-ten- 
dering season. Next day I liad a meeting in a friends' 
family, which, through the strengthening arm of the Lord, 
was a time to be thankfully remembered. 

2nd of 8ih mo. and 1st of the week. I was this day at 
Sheffield, a large inland town. I was at sundry meetings 
last week, and feel inward thankfulness for that Divine sup- 
port, which hath been graciously extended to me. On the 
Olh I was at Rush worth. I have lately passed through 
some painful labor; but have been comforted under a sense 
of that Divine visitation, which 1 feel extended towards 
many young people. 

I6th of 8th mo. and the 1st of the week, I was at Settle. 
It harb of late been a time of inward poverty; under wbicli 



idHN WOOLMAN. ISi 

my mind hath been preserved in a watchful tender state, 
feehng for the mind of the holy Leader, and I find peace 
in the labors I have passed through. 

On inquiry in many places, I find the price of rye 
about five shillings; wheat eight shillings per bushel; 
oatmeal twelve shillings for a hundred and twenty pounds; 
mutton from three pence to five pence per pound; bacon 
from seven pence to nine pence; cheese from four pence 
to six pence; butter from eight pence to ten pence; house 
rent for a poor man, from twenty-five shillings to forty 
shillings per year, to be paid w^eekly; wood for fire very 
scarce and dear; coal in some places, two shillings and 
six pence per hundred weight; but near the pits not a quar- 
ter so much. O may the ^vealthy consider the poor! 

The wages of laboring men, in several counties towards 
London, at ten pence per day in common business, the 
employer finds small beer, and the laborer finds his own 
food; but in harvest and hay time, wages are about one 
shilling per day, and the laborer hath all his diet. In some 
parts of the north of England, poor laboring men have 
their food where they work, and appear in common to do 
rather better than nearer London. Industrious women, who 
spin in the factories, get some four pence, some five pence, 
and so on to six, seven, eight, nine, or ten pence per day, 
and find their own house-room and diet. Great numbers 
of poor people live chiefly on bread and water, in the 
southern parts of England, as well as in the northern parts; 
and there are many poor children not even taught to read. 
May those who have abundance lay these things to heart! 

Stage coaches frequently go upwards of one hundred 
miles in twenty-four hours; and 1 have heard friends say, 
in several places, that it is common for horses to be killed 
with hard driving, and that many others are driven till they 
grow blind. Post-boys pursue their business, each one to 
Ills stage, all night through the winter. Some boys, who 
ride long stages, suffer greatly in winter nights, and at several 
places, I have heard of their being frozen to death. So 
great is the hurry in the spirit of this world, that in aiming 
to do business quickly, and to gain wealth, the creation at 
this day doth loudly groaa,. 



1 52 T II E JOURNAL P 

As my journey lialh been ulihout a Iioise, 1 have had" 
Sf3veral ofiers of being assisted on my way in these stage 
coaches, but have not been in them; nor liave I had free- 
dom to send letters l^y these posts, in the present way of iheir 
riding; the stages being so fixed, and one boy dej)endent 
on another, as to time and going at great speed, that in long 
cold winter nights, the poor boys suffer much. I heard in 
America of the way of these posts; and cautioned friends 
in the general meeting of ministers and elders at Philadel- 
phia, and in the yearly meeting of ministers and elders in 
London, not to send letters to me on any common occasion 
by post, xind thougli, on this account, I may be likely not 
10 liear so often from my family left behind; yet for right- 
eousness sake I am, through Divine fivor made content. 

I have felt great distress of njind, since I came on this 
island, on account of the members of our society being 
mixed with the world in various sorts of trafKc, carried 
on in impure channels. Great is the trade to Africa for 
slaves! and for the loading of these ships, a great number 
of people are em})loyed in their factories; among whom 
are many of our society. Friends, in early times, refused 
on a religious principle, to make or trade in superfluities; 
of whicli we have many testimonies on record: but for 
want of faithfulness, some, whose examples were of note 
in our society, gave way; froin wdiich others took more 
liberty. I^.Fembers of our society worked -in superfluities, 
and bought and sold them; and thus dimness of sight came 
over many: at length, friends got into the use of some 
superfluities in dress, and in the furniture of their houses; 
which hath spread from less to more, till superfluity of some 
kinds is common among us. 

In this declining state, many look at the example of 
others and too much neglect the pure feeling of truth. Of 
late years, a deep exercise hath attended my mind, that 
friends may dig deep, may carefully cast forth the loose 
matter, and get down to the Rock, the sure foundation, and 
there hearken to that Divine voice which gives a clear and 
certain sound; and I have fell in that which doth not de- 
ceive, that if friends who have known the truth, keep in 
that tenderness of heart, where all views of outward gain 



JOHN WOOL MAN. 15 



r» 



are given up, and their trust is only in the Lord, he will 
graciously lead some to be patterns of deep self-denial in 
things relating to trade and handicraft labor: and others 
who have plenty of the treasures of this world, will be ex- 
amples of a plain frugal life, and pay wages to such as they 
may hire, more liberally than is now customary in some 
places. 

23rd of 8 mo. I was this day at Preston Patrick, and 
had a comfortable meeting. I have several times been enter- 
tained at the houses of friends, who had sundry things 
about them that had the appearance of outward greatness; 
and as I have kept inward, way hath opened for conversa- 
tion with such in private, in which Divine goodness hath 
favored us together with heart-tendering times. 

26th of 8 mo. — Being now^ at George Crosfield's, in tl^e 
county of Westmoreland, 1 feel a concern to commit to 
writing, the following uncommon circumstance. 

In a time of sickness with the pleurisy, a little more 
than two years and a half ago, J was brought so near the 
gates of death, that I forgot my name. Being then de- 
sirous to knovv who I was, I saw a mass of m.atter of a 
dull gloomy color, between the south and the east; and was 
informed that this mass was human beings in as great misery 
as they could be, and live, and that I v^^as mixed with them, 
and that henceforth I might not consider myself as a dis- 
tinct or separate being. In this state I remained several 
hours. I then heard a soft melodious voice, more pure 
and harmonious than any I had heard with my ears before; 
I believed it v/as the voice of an angel, who spake to the 
other angels: the words were — " John Woolman is 
dead." I soon remembered that I was once John AVool- 
man, and being assured that I was alive in the body, I 
greatly wondered w^hat that heavenly voice could mean. 
I believed beyond doubting that it was the voice of an holy 
angel, but as yet it was a mystery to me. 

1 was then carried in spirit to the mines, w^here poor 
oppressed people were digging rich treasures for those 
called Christians, and heard them blaspheme the name of 
Christ; at which I was grieved; for his name to me was 
precious. I was then informed that these heathens were 



154 THE JOURNAL OF 

lold tliat lliose who oppressed them were the followers of 
Clirisl; and they said among themselves, " if Christ di- 
rected theru to use us in this sort, then Christ is a cruel 
tyrant." 

All this time the song of the angel remained a mystery; 
and in the morning, my dear wife and some others coming 
to my bedside, I asked them if they knew who J was; and 
they telling me I was John Woolman, thought 1 was light- 
headed: for I told them not what the angel said, nor was 
i dis])osed to talk much to any one, but was very desirous 
to get so deep, that .[ might understand this mysteiy. 

My tongue was often so dry, that I could not speak till 
I had tnoved it about and gathered some moisture; and as 
1 lay still for a time, I at length felt a ]^ivine power pre- 
pare niy mouih that I could speak; and ] then said, "I 
am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live; yet not I, 
l>ut Christ liveih in me. x\nd the life which I now live in 
the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of (iod, who loved 
me, and gave himself for me." Then the mystery was 
opened, and I perceived there was joy in heaven over a 
sinner who had repented; and that the language " John 
Vroohnan is dead," meant no more than the death of my 
own will. 

Soon after 1 coughed, and raised much bloody matter, 
which [ had not done during this visioji. I\Jy natural un- 
derstanding now returned as before, and I -saw that people 
setting off their tables with silver vessels at entertainments, 
was often stained with worldly glory; and that in the pre- 
sent state of thin,i2;s, I should take heed how I fed myself 
out of such vessels. Cioing to our monthly meeting soon 
after my recovery, I dined at a friend's house where drink 
was brought in silver vessels, and not in any other. Want- 
ing something to drink, 1 lold him my case with weeping, 
and he ordereil some drink for me in another vessel. I 
afterwards went through the same exercise in several 
friends' houses in Atnerica, as well as in England, and 1 
have cause to acknowledge with humble reverence, the 
loving kindness of my heavenly Father, who hath preserv- 
ed me in such a tender frame of mind, that none, 1 be- 



JOHN \V L M A K . 1 55 

I'leve, have ever been oftended a( "what I have said on that 
subject. 

After this sickness, I spake not in pubHc meetings for 
worsliip for nearly one year; but my mind was very often 
in company witli the oppressed slaves, as I sat in meet- 
ings; and though, under this dispensation, I was shut up 
from speaking, yet the spring of the gospel ministry was, 
many times, livingly opened in me, and the Divine gift op- 
erated by abundance of weeping, in feeling the op[)ression 
of this people. It being so long since I passed through 
this dispensation, and the matter remaining fresh and lively 
in my mind, I believe it safest for me to commit it to writ- 

30lh of 8 mo. This morning 1 wrote a letter, in sub- 
stance as follows: 

" Beloved friend, 

'^ My mind is often affected as 1 pass along, under a 
sense of the state of many poor people, who sit under that 
sort of ministry which I'equires much outward labor to 
support it; and the loving kindness of our heavenly Fath- 
er, in opening a pure gospel ministry in this nation, haih 
often raised thankfulness in my heart to Him. I often re- 
member the conflicts of the faithful under persecution, and 
now look at the free exercise of the pure gift uninterrupted 
by outward laws, as a trust committed to us; which re- 
quires our deepest gratitude, and most careful attention. 
1 feel a tender conceru that the work of reformation so 
prosperously carried on in this land within a few ages past, 
may go forward and spread among the nations; and may 
not go backward, through dust gathering on our garments, 
who have been called to a work so great and so precious. 

" Last evening during thy absence, I had a little op* 
poriunity with some of thy family, in which I rejoiced; 
and feeling a sweetness on my mind towards thee, I now 
endeavor to open a little of the feeling I had there. 

" I have heard that you in these partg, have at certain 
seasons, meetings of conference, in relation to friends liv- 
ing up to our principles, in which several meetings unite in 
one. With this I feel unity, having in some measure felt 
truth lead that way among friends in America: and I bav<? 



156 THEJOURNALOF 

found, my dear friend, that in these labors all superfluities 
in our own living are against us. I feel that pure love 
towards thee, in which there is freedom. 

" I look at that precious gift bestowed on thee, with aw- 
fulness before Him who gave it; and feel a desire, that we 
may be so separated to the gospel of Christ, that those 
things which proceed from the spirit of this world, may 
have no place among us. 

'' Thy friend, 

''John Woolman." 

i rested a few days, in body and mind, with our friend 
Jane Crosfield who was once in America. On the sixth 
day of the week I was at Kendal in Westmoreland; and 
at Greyrig meeting the 30th day of the month, and first of 
the week. I have known poverty of late, and have been 
graciously supported to keep in the patience: and am 
thankful under a sense of the goodness of the Lord to- 
wards those who are of a contrite spirit. 

6th of 9 mo. and first of the week, I was this day 
at Counterside; a large meeting house, and very full. 
Through the opening of pure love, it was a strengthening 
time to me, and I believe to many more. 

loth of 9 mo. This day I was at Leyburn, a small 
meeting; but the town's people coming in, the house was 
crowded. It was a time of heavy labor, and I believe 
was a profitable meeting. At this place I heard that my 
kinsman William Hunt from North Carolina, who was on 
a religious visit to friends in England, departed this life on 
the 9th of this montli, of the small pox, at Newcastle. 
He appeared in the ministry when a youth, and his labors 
therein were of good savor. He travelled much in that 
work in America. I once heard him say in public testi- 
mony, that his concern in that visit was to be devoted to 
the service of Christ so fully, that he might not spend one 
minute in pleasing himself; which words joined whh his 
example, was a means of stirring up the pure mind in me. 

Having of late often travelled in wet weather, through 
narrow streets in towns and villages, where dirtiness un- 
der foot, and the scent arising from that filth, which more 



JOHN WOOL MAN. 157 

or less infects the air of all thickly settled towns, were 
disagreeable; and being but weakly. I have felt distress 
both in body and mind with that which is impure. In 
these journeys 1 have been where much cloth hath been 
dyed ; and have at sundry times walked over ground where 
much of their dye-stuffs has drained away. This hath 
produced a longing in my mind, that people might come 
into cleanness of spirit, cleanness of person, and clean- 
ness about their houses and garments. 

Some of the great carry delicacy to a great height them- 
selves, and yet real cleanliness is not generally promoted. 
Dyes being invented partly to please the eye, and partly 
to hide dirt, I have felt in this weak state, when travelling 
in dirtiness, and affected with unwholesome scents, a strong 
desire that the nature of dyeing cloth to hide dirt may be 
more fully considered. 

Washing our garments to keep them sweet is cleanly, 
but it is the' opposite to real cleanliness to hide dirt in 
them. Through giving w^ay to hiding dirt in our garments, 
a spirit which would conceal that which is disagreeable is 
strengthened. Real cleanliness becometh a holy people; 
but hiding that which is not clean by coloring our garments, 
seems contrary to the sweetness of sincerity. Through 
some sorts of dyes cloth is rendered less useful. And if 
the value of dye stuffs, and expense of dyeing, and the 
damage done to cloth, were all added together, and that 
cost applied to keeping all sweet and clean, how much 
more would real cleanliness prevail. 

On this visit to England, I have felt some instructions 
sealed on my mind, which I am concerned to leave in writ- 
ing, for the use of such as are called to the station of a 
minister of Christ. 

Christ being the Prince of peace, and we being no more 
than ministers, it is necessary for us, not only to feel a con- 
cern in our first going forth, but to experience the renew- 
ing thereof, in the appointment of meetings. I felt a con- 
cern in America, to prepare for this voyage; and being 
through the mercy of God, brought safe hither, my heart 
was like a vessel that wanted vent. For several weeks 
after my arrival, when my mouth was opened in meetings, 

14 



158 THE JOURNAL OF 

it was like the raising of a gate in a water-course, when a 
weight of water lay upon it. In these labors there was a 
fresh visitation to many, especially to the youth; but some- 
times I felt poor and empty, and yet there appeared a ne- 
cessity to appoint meetings. In this I was exercised to 
abide in the pure life of truth, and in all my labors to watcb 
(h'hgently against the motions of self in my own mind, 

i have frequently found a necessity to stand up, when 
the spring of the ministry was low, and to speak from the 
necessity, in that which subjecteth the will of the creature; 
and herein I was united with the suffering seed, and found 
inward svveetness in these mortifying labors. As I have 
been preserved in a watchful attention to the Divine leader^ 
under these dispensations enlargement at times hath followed^ 
and the power of truth hath risen higher in some meetings, 
than I ever knew it before through me. Thus I have beem 
more and more instructed as to the necessity of depending,. 
not upon a concern which I felt in America, to come on a 
visit to England, but upon the daily instructions of Christ, 
the Prince of peace. 

Of late I have sometimes felt a stop in the appointment 
of meetings, not wholly, but in part; and I do not feel lib- 
erty to appoint them so quickly one after another as I have 
done heretofore. The work of the ministry being a work 
of Divine love, 1 feel that the openings thereof are to be 
waited for in all our appointments. Oh how deep is Di- 
vine wisdom ! Chiist puts forth his ministers, and goeth 
before them; and oh how great is the danger of departing 
from the pure feeling of that which leadeth safely ! Christ 
1-iiioweth the state of the people, and in the pure feeling of 
the gospei ministry, their states are opened to his servants. 
Christ knoweth when the fruit-bearing branches themselves 
have i>eed of purging. Oh that these lessons may be re- 
membered by me ! and that all who appoint meetings may 
proceed in the pure feeling of duty ! 

I have sometimes felt a necessity to stand up, but that 
spirit which is of the world hath so much prevailed in many, 
and the pure life of truth hath been so pressed down, that I 
have gone forward, not as one travelling in a road cast up 
and well prepared, but as a man walking through a miry 



JOHNWOOLMAN. 159 

place, in which are stones here and there safe to step on, 
but so situated that one step being taken, time is necessary 
to see where to step next. Now I find that in a state of 
pure obedience, the mind learns contentment, in appear- 
ing weak and foolish to that wisdom which is of the world; 
and in these lowly labors, they who stand in a low place, 
and are rightly exercised under the cross, will find nourish- 
ment. The gift is pure; and while the eye is single in at- 
tending thereto, the understanding is preserved clear; self 
is kept out. We rejoice in filling up that which remains 
of the afiiictions of Christ, for his body's sake, which is 
the church. 

The natural man loveth eloquence, and many love to 
hear eloquent orations; and if there be not a carefal atten- 
tion to the gift, men who have once labored in the pure 
gospel ministry, grov^'ing weary of suffering, and ashamed 
of appearing weak, may kindle a fire, compass themselves 
about with sparks, and walk in the light; not of Christ w4io 
is under suffering, but of that fire which they in departing 
from the gift, have kindled, in order that those hearers, who 
have left the meek, suffering state for worldly wisdom, may 
be v^armed with this fire, and speak highly of their labors. 
That which is of God gathers to God; and that which is 
of the woild, is owned by the world. 

In this journey a labor hath attended my mind, that the 
ministers among us may be preserved in the meek, feeling 
life of truth, where w^e may have no desire but to follow 
Christ, and to be with him; that w^ien he is under suffering, 
we may sufi:er wnth him; and never desire to rise up in do- 
minion, but as he, by the virtue of his own spirit, may 
raise us. 



A few days after writing these considerations, our dear 
friend, in the course of his religious visits, came to the 
city of York, and attended most of the sittings of the 
quarterly meeting there; but before it was over, he was 



160 THE JOURNAL OP 

taken ill of the small-pox. Our friend Thomas Priestman^ 
and others who attended him, preserved the following 
minutes of his expressions in the time of his sickness, and 
of his decease. 

First day, the 27th of the ninth month, 1772. — His dis- 
order appeared to be the small-pox. Being asked to have 
a doctor's advice, he signified he had not freedom or liber- 
ty in his mind so to do, standing wholly resigned to His 
will, who gave him life, and whose power he had witness- 
ed to raise and heal him in sickness before, when he seem- 
ed nigh unto death; and if be was to wind up now, he was 
perfectly resigned, having no will either to live or die, and 
didnot choose any should be sent for to him: but a young 
man, an apothecary, coming of his own accord the next 
day, and desiring to do something for him, he said he found 
a freedom to confer with him and the other friends about 
him, and if any thing should be proposed as to medicine, 
that did not come through defiled channels or oppressive 
hands, he should be wilhng to consider and take it, so far 
as he found freedom. 

Second day. — He said he felt the disorder to affect his 
head, so that he could think little, and but as a child; and 
desired, if his understanding should be more affected, to 
have nothing given him that those about him knew he had 
a testimony against. 

Third day. — He uttered the following prayer: '' O 
Lord, my God! the amazing horrors of darkness were 
gathered around me, and covered me all over, and I saw 
no way to go forth; I felt the depth and extent of the 
misery of my fellow-creatures separated from the Divine 
harmony, and it was heavier than I could bear, and I was 
crushed down under it; I lifted up my hand, I stretched 
out my arm, but there was none to help me; I looked 
round about, and was amazed. In the depths of misery, 
O Lord! I remembered that thou art omnipotent; that I 
had called thee Father; and I felt that I loved thee, and I 
was made quiet in my will, and I waited for deliver- 
ance from thee. Thou hadst pity upon me, when no 
man could help me; I saw that meekness under suf- 
ering was showed to us in the most affecting ex- 



J H N W L M A N . 161 

ample of thy Son, and thou taught me to follow him, and 
I said, " Thy will, O Father, be done!" 

Fourth day morning. Being asked how he felt himself, 
he meekly answered, " I don't know that I have slept this 
night; I feel the disorder making its progress, but my mind 
is mercifully preserved in stillness and peace. Some time 
after, he said he was sensible that the pains of death must 
be hard to bear, but if he escaped them now, he must 
sometime pass through them, and he did not know that he 
could be better prepared, but had no will in it. He said 
he had settled his outward affairs to his mind, had taken 
leave of his wife and family as never to return, leaving them 
to the Divine protection; adding, '^ though I feel them 
near to me at this time, yet I freely given them up, having 
a hope that they will be provided for." And a little after 
said, '^ This trial is made easier than I could have thought, 
ray will being wholly taken away; if I was anxious for the 
event it would have been harder; but I am not^ and my 
mind enjoys a perfect calm." 

In the night, a young woman having given bim something 
to drink, he said, " My child, thou seemest very kind to 
me a poor creature; the Lord will revv^ard thee for it." A 
while after he cried out, with great earnestness of spirit, 
" Oh, my Father! my Father! and soon after he saidj 
" Oh, my Father! my Father! how comfortable art thou 
to my soul in this trying season t" Being asked if he 
could take a little nourishment, after some pause, he re- 
plied, " My child, I cannot tell what to say to it; I seem 
nearly arrived where my soul shall have rest from all its 
troubles." After giving in something to be inserted in his 
journal, he said, '' I believe- the Lord will now^ excuse me 
from exercises of this kind; and I see no work but one, 
which is to be the last wrought by me in this world; the 
messenger will come that will release me from all these 
troubles, but it must be in the Lord's time, which I am 
waiting for." He said he had labored to do whatever was 
required, according to the ability received; in the remem- 
brance of which he had peace: and though the disorder 
was strong at times, and would like a whirlwind come over 

his mind, yet it had hitherto been kept steady, and centered 

14# 



1 62 T H E J U il N A L F 

in everlasting love; adding, '' and if that be mercifully con- 
tinued, I ask and desire no more. Another time he said, 
lie had long had a view of visiting this nation, and some- 
time before he came, had a dream, in which he saw him- 
self in the northern parts of it, and that the spring of the 
gospel was opened in him much as it was in the beginning 
of friends, such as George Fox and William Dewsbury, 
and he saw the different states of the people, as clear as he 
had ever seen flowers in a garden; but in his going along 
he was suddenly stopped, though he could not see for what 
end; but looking towards home, fell into a flood of tears, 
which waked him. 

At another time he said, " My draught seemed strongest 
towards the North, and I mentioned in my own monthly 
meeting, that attending the quarterly meeting at York, and 
being there, looked like home to me." 

Fifth-day night. Having repeatedly consented to take 
medicine with a view to settle his stomach, but without ef- 
fect; the friend then waiting on him said through distress, 
" What shall I do now?" He answered with great com- 
posure, " Rejoice evermore, and in every thinggive thanks;" 
but added a little after, '' This is sometimes hard lo come 
at." 

On sixth day morning he broke forth early in supplica- 
tion on this wise: " O Lord, it was thy power that enabled 
me to forsake sin in my youth, and I have felt thy bruises 
for disobedience; but as I bowed under them thou heal- 
edst me, continuing a father and a friend; 1 feel thy power 
now, and I beg that in the approaching trying moment^ 
thou wilt keep my heart steadfast unto thee." On his giv- 
ing directions to a friend concerning some little things, she 
said, " I will take care, but hope thou wilt live to order 
them thyself." He replied, " My hope is in Christ; and 
though I may seem a little better, a change in the disorder 
may soon happen, and my little strength be dissolved, and 
if it so happen, I shall be gathered to my everlasting rest." 
On her saying she did not doubt that, but could not help 
mourning to see so many faithful servants removed at so 
low a time, he said, ^' All good cometh from the Lord, 
\vhosc power is the same, and He can work as He sees 



JOHN WOOLMAN. 163 

best." The same day he had given directions about wrap- 
ping his corpse; perceiving a friend to weep, he said, " I 
would rather thou wouldst guard against weeping for rae, 
my sister; 1 sorrow not, though I have had some painful 
conflicts, but now they seem over and matters well settled, 
and I look at the face of my dear Redeemer, for sweet is 
his voice, and his countenance is comely. 

1st day, 4th of lOth mo. Being very weak, and in gen- 
eral difficult to be understood, he uttered a few words in 
commemoration of the Lord's goodness; and added, 
'' How tenderly have I been waited on in this time of af- 
fliction, in which I may say, in Job's words, Tedious days 
and " wearisome nights are appointed to me;" and how 
many are spending their time and money in vanity and su- 
perfluities, while thousands and tens of thousands want the 
necessaries of life, who might be relieved by them; and 
their distresses, at such a time as this, in some degree soft- 
ened by the administering of suitable things." 

Second day morning. Tlie apothecary, who appeared 
very anxious to assist him, being present, he queried about 
the probability of such a load of matter being thrown off 
his weak body; and the apothecary making some remarks, 
implying he thought it might; he spoke with an audible 
voice on this wise : " My dependence is on the Lord Je- 
sus, who I trust will forgive my sins, which is all I hope 
for; and, if it be His will to raise up this body again, I am 
content; and if to die, I am resigned; but if thou canst 
not be easy without trying to assist nature, I submit." Af- 
ter which, his throat was so much affected, that it was very 
difficult for him to speak so as to be understood, and he 
frequently wrote when he wanted any thing. About the 
second hour on fourth day morning, he asked for pen and 
ink, and at several times, with much difficulty, wrote thus: 
" I believe my being here is in the wisdom of Christ; I 
know not as to life or death." 

About a quarter before six, the same morning, beseem- 
ed to fall into an easy sleep, which continued about half an 
hour, when, seeming to awake, he breathed a few times 
with more difficulty, and expired without sigh, groan, or 
struggle. 

END OF THE JOURNAL. 



APPENDIX. 



John iVoolman^s account of his sister Elizabeth TVoolman. 

In the winter of 1747 my eldest sister, Elizabeth Wool- 
man, jun., died of the small-pox. aged thirty-one years. 
She was from her youth, of a thoughtful disposition, and 
very compassionate to her acquaintance in sickness or dis- 
tress; being ready to help them as far as she could. She 
was dutiful to her parents; one instance whereof follows: 
— It happened that she, and two of her sisters, being then 
near the estate of young women, had an inclination one first 
day after meeting to go on a visit to some other young wo- 
men at some distance, whose company, I believe, would 
have done them no good. They expressed their desire to 
our parents; who were dissatisfied with the proposal, and 
prevented them. The same day as my sisters and I were 
together, and they talking about their disappointment, 
Elizabeth expressed her contentment under it, signifying 
she believed it might be for their good. 

A few years after she attained to mature age, through 
the gracious visitations of God's love, she was strengthen- 
ed to live a self-denying exemplary life, giving herself much 
to reading and meditation. 

The following letter may shew in some degree her dis- 
position: 

Haddonfield, 1st day, llth month, 1743. 

Beloved brother John Woolman, 

In that love which desires the welfare of all men. I 



166 APPENDIX. 

write unto thee. I received thine, dated second day of the 
lenth month last, with which I was coniforted. My spirit 
is bowed with thankfulness that 1 should be remembered, 
who am unworthy; but the Lord is full of mercy, and his 
goodness is extended to the meanest of his creation; there- 
fore in his infinite love, he hath pitied and spared and 
shewed mercy, that I have not been cut off nor quite lost; 
but at times I am refreshed and comforted as with the 
glimpse of his presence, which is more to the immortal 
part, than all which this world can afJbrd: so, VTith desires 
for thy preservation with my own, 1 remain 

thy affectionate sister, 
ELJZ. WOOLMAN,jun. 

The fore part of her illness she was in great sadness and 
dejection of mind, of which she told one of her intimate 
friends, and said, '' when I was a young girl, I was wanton 
and airy, but I thought I had thoroughly repented of it;" 
and added, '' I have of late had great satisfaction in meet- 
ings." Though she was thus disconsolate, she still retain- 
ed a hope, which was an anchor to her. Sometime after, 
the same friend came again to see her, to whom she men- 
tioned her former expressions, and said, " it is otherv.ise 
now, for the Lord haih rewarded me seven-fold; and lam 
unable to express the greatness of his love manifested to 
me." Her disorder appearing dangerous,- and our mother 
being sorrowful, she took notice of it, and said: ''dear 
mother! weep not for me; I go to my God," and many 
times, with an audible voice, uttered praise to her Re- 
deemer. 

A friend coming some miles to see her the morning be- 
fore she died, asked her how she did. She answered " I 
have had a hard night, but shall not have another such, for 
I shall die, and it will be well with my soul;" and accord- 
ingly she died the next evening. 

The following ejaculations were found among her writ-* 
ings; written I believe at four times. 

I. Oh! that my head were as waters, and mine eyes as 
a fountain of tears, that 1 might weep day and ni^ht, until 
acquainted with my God. 



APPENDIX. 167 

II. O Lord that I may enjoy thy presence; or else my 
time is lost, and my life a snare to my soul. 

III. O Lord, that I may receive bread from thy table, 
and that thy grace may abound in me. 

IV. O Lord, that I may be acquainted with thy pres- 
ence, that I may be seasoned with thy salt, that thy grace 
may abound in me. 



168 APPENDIX. 



The TESTIMONY of Friends in Yorkshire, at their quarterly meeiing 
held at York, the 24//i a?id 25th of the 2rd month, 1773; concerning 
John Woolman of Mount Holly, in the Province of JVew Jersey, JS^orth 
America; v^ho departed this life at the house of our friend Thomas 
Priestman, in the suburbs of this City, the 7th of 10th month, 1772, and 
was interred in the burial ground of friends the 9th of the same, aged 
about fifty -two years. 

This our valuable friend having been under a religious 
engagement for some time, to visit friends in this nation, 
and more especially us in the northern parts, undertook 
the same in full concurrence and near sympathy with his 
friends and brethren at home; as appeared by certificates 
from the monthly and quarterly-meetings to which he be- 
longed, and from the spring-meeting of ministers and elders, 
held at Philadelphia, for Pennsylvania and New Jersey. 

He arrived in the city of London the beginning of the 
last yearly meeting, and after attending that meeting, trav- 
elled northward, visiting the quarterly-meetings of Hert- 
fordshire, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Oxford- 
shire, and Worcestershire, and divers particular meetings 
in his way. 

He visited many meetings on the West side of this coun- 
ty, also some in Lancashire and Westmoreland, from 
whence he came to our quarterly-meeting in the last ninth 
month, and though much out of health, yet was enabled to 
attended all the sittings of that meeting except the last. 

His disorder, which proved the small-pox, increased 
speedily upon him, and was very afflicting; under which 
he was supported in much meekness, patience, and chris- 
tian fortitude. To those who attended him in his illness, 
his mind appeared to be centered in divine love; under the 
precious influence whereof we believe he finished his 
course, and entered into the mansions of everlasting rest. 

In the early part of his illness he requesteda friend to 
write, and he broke forth thus. 



APPENDIX. 169 

^' O Lord my God! the amazing horrors of darkness 
were gathered around me and covered me all over, and I 
saw no way to go forth; 1 felt the misery of my fellow 
creatures separated from the divine harmony, and it was 
heavier than I could bear, and I was crushed down under 
it; I lifted up m}r hand, and stretched out my arm, but 
there was none to help me; I looked round about, and was 
amazed: In the depth of misery, O Lord! I remembered 
that thou art omnipotent, that I had called thee Father, and 
I felt that I loved thee, and I was made quiet in thy will, 
and I waited for deliverance from thee; thou hadst pity 
upon me, wdien no man could help me; I saw that meek- 
ness under suffering was shewed to us in the most affecting 
example of thy vSon, and thou taught me to follow him, 
and I said, thy will, O Father be done," 

Many more of his weighty expressions might have been 
inserted here; but it vvas deemed unnecessary, they being 
already published in print. 

He was a man endued with a large natural capacity; and 
being obedient to the manifestations of Divine Grace, hav- 
ing in patience and humility endured many deep baptisms, 
he became thereby sanctified and fitted for the Lord's 
work, and was truly serviceable in his Church. Dwelling 
in awful fear and watchfulness, he was careful in his public 
appearances to feel the putting forth of the Divine Hand; 
so that the spring of the gospel ministry often flowed 
through him with great sweetness and purity, as a refresh- 
ing stream to the weary travellers towards the city of God. 
Skillful in dividing the vrord, he was furnished by Him in 
wdiom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, 
to communicate freely to the several states of the people 
where his lot was cast. His conduct at other times was 
seasoned with like w^atchful circumspection, and attention 
to the guidance of Divine wisdom, which rendered bis 
whole conversation uniformly edifying. 

He was fully persuaded that, as the life of Christ comes, 
to reign in the earth, all abuse and unnecessary oppression, 
both of the human and brute creation, will come to an end; 
but under the sense of a deep revolt,^ and an overflowing 

15 



170 APPENDIX. 

Stream of unrighteousness, his life has been often a life of 
mourning. 

He was deeply concerned on account of that inhuman 
and iniquitous practice of making slaves of the people of 
Africa, or holding them in that state; and, on that account, 
we understand he hath not only written some books, but 
travelled much on the continent of America, in order to 
make the negro-masters (especially those in profession 
with us) sensible of the evil of such a practice; and though 
in this journey to England, he was far removed from the 
outward sight of their sufferings, yet his deep exercise of 
mind, and frequent concern to open the miserable state of 
this deeply injured people, remained; as appears by a short 
treatise he wrote in this journey. His testimony in the 
last meeting he attended was on this subject, wherein he 
remarked, that as w^e, as a society, when under outward 
sufferings, had often found it our concern to lay them be- 
fore those in authority, and thereby, in the Lord's time, 
had obtained relief, so he recommended this oppressed 
part of the creation to our notice; that we may, as way 
may open, represent their sufferings in an individual, if not 
in a society capacity to those in authority. 

Deeply sensible that the desire to gratify people's in- 
clinations in luxury and superfluities, is the principal ground 
of oppression, and the occasion of many unnecessary wants, 
he believed it to be his duty to be a pattern of great self- 
denial, with respect to the things of this life, and earnestly 
to labor with friends in the meekness of wisdom, to impress 
on their minds the great importance of our testimony in 
these things, recommending to the guidance of the blessed 
truth in this and all other concerns, and cautioning such as 
are experienced therein, against contenting themselves with 
acting to the standard of others, but to be careful to make 
the standard of truth, manifested to them, the measure of 
their obedience. For, said he " That purity of life which 
proceeds from faithfulness in following the spirit of truth, 
that state where our minds are devoted to serve God, and 
all our wants are bounded by his wisdom; this habitation 
has often been opened before me as a place of retirement 
for the children of the light, where they may stand separat- 



APPENDIX. 171 

ed from that which disordereth and confuseth the affairs of 
society, and where we have a testimony of our innocence 
in the hearts of those who behold us." 

We conclude with fervent desires, that we as a people 
may thus by our example, promote the Lord's work in the 
earth; and, our hearts being prepared, may unite in prayer 
to the great Lord of the harvest, that as in his infinite wis- 
dom he hath greatly stripped the church, by removing of late 
divers faithful ministers and elders, he may be pleased to 
send forth many more faithful laborers into his harvest. 



172 APPENDIX 



d TESTIMONY of ihe Monthly Meeting of Friends, held in Bur- 
lington, the first day of the eighth month, in the year of our Lord, 1774, 
concerning our esteemed friend, John Woolman, deceased. 

He was born in Nortbasnpton, in the county of Burling- 
ton, and province of West-New- Jersey, in the eighth 
month, 1720, of religions parents, who instructed him very 
early in the principles of the Christian religion, as profes- 
sed by the people called Quakers; which he esteemed a 
blessing to him, even in his younger years, tending to pre- 
serve him from the infection of wicked children. But 
through the workings of the enemy, and the levity incident 
to youth, he frequently deviated from those parental pre- 
cepts; by which he laid a renewed foundation for repent- 
ance, that was finally succeeded by a "godly sorrow not 
to be repented of;" and so he became acquainted with that 
sanctifying power which qualifies for true gospel ministry, 
into which he was called about the twenty-second year of 
his age; and by a faithful use of the talents committed to 
him, he experienced an increase, until he arrived at the 
state of a father, capable of dividing the word aright to the 
different states he ministered unto; dispensing milk to babes, 
and meat to those of riper years. Thus he found the effi- 
cacy of that power to arise, which in his own expressions, 
" prepares the creature to stand like a trumpet, through 
which the Lord speaks to his people." He was a loving 
husband, a tender father, and was very humane to every 
part of the creation under his care. 

His concern for the poor and those in affliction was evi- 
dent by his visits to them, whom he frequently relieved by 
his assistance and charity. He was for many years deeply 
exercised on account of the poor enslaved Africans, whose 
cause, as he mentioned, lay almost continually upon him; 
and he labored to obtain liberty for those captives both in 
public and in private, and was favored to see his endeavors 
crowned with considerable success. He was particularly 



APPENDIX. 173 

desirous that friends should not be instrumental to lay bur- 
dens on this oppressed people, but should remember the 
days of suffering from which they had been providentially 
delivered; that, if times of trouble should return, no injus- 
tice dealt to those in slavery might rise in judgment against 
us, but being clear, we might on such occasions address 
the Almighty with a degree of confidence for his interpo- 
sition and relief; being particularly careful as to himself, 
not to countenance slavery, even by the use of those con- 
veniences of life which were furnished by their labor. 

He was desirous to have his own mind and the minds of 
others, redeemed from the pleasures and immoderate pro- 
fits of this world, and to fix them on those joys which fade 
not away; his principal care being after a life of purity, 
endeavoring to avoid not only the grosser pollutions, but 
those also which appearing in a more refined dress, are not 
sufficiently guarded against by some well-disposed people. 
In the latter part of his life he was remarkable for the 
plainness and simplicity of his dress, and as much as pos- 
sible avoided the use of plate, costly furniture, and feasting; 
thereby endeavoring to become an example of temperance 
and self-denial, which he believed himself called unto; and 
he was favored with peace therein, although it carried the 
appearance of great austerity in the view of some. He 
was very moderate in his charges in the way of business, 
and in his desires after gain; and though a man of indus- 
try, avoided and strove much to lead others out of ex- 
treme labor and anxiety after perishable things; being de- 
sirous that the strength of our bodies might not be spent in 
procuring things unprofitable, and that we might use mod- 
eration and kindness to the brute animals under our care, 
to prize the use of them as a great favor, and by no 
means to abuse them; that the gifts of Providence should 
be thankfully received, and applied to the uses they were 
designed for. 

He several times opened a school at Mount Holly, for 
the instruction of poor friends' children and others; being 
concerned for their help and improvement therein. His 
love and care for the rising youth among us was truly great, 
recommending to parents, and those who have the charge 
15* 



174 APPENDIX. 



of theni, to choose conscientious and pious tutors; saying 
" it is a lovely sight to behold innocent children:" and 
that, " to labor for their help against that which would mar 
the beauty of their minds, is a debt we owe them." 

His ministry was sound, very deep and penetrating, 
sometimes pointing out the dangerous situation which indul- 
gence and custom lead into; frequently exhorting others, 
especially the youth, not to be discouraged at the difficulties 
which occur, but to press after purity. He often express- 
ed an earnest engagement that pure wisdom should be at- 
tended to, which would lead into lowliness of mind, and 
resignation to the Divine will, in which state small posses- 
sions here would be sufficient. 

In transacting the affairs of the discipline, his judg- 
ment was sound and clear, and he was very useful in treat- 
ing;; with those who had done amiss; he visited such in a 
private way in that plainness which truth dictates, shewmg 
great tenderness and christian forbearance. He was a 
constant attender of our yearly-meeting, in which he was 
a good example, and particularly useful; assisting in the 
business thereof with great weight and attention. He 
several times visited most of the meetings of friends in 
this and in the neighboring provinces, with the concurrence 
of the monthly-meeting to which he belonged, and we have 
reason to believe he had good service therein; generally 
or always expressing at his return how it ^ had fared with 
him, and the evidence of peace in his mind for thus per- 
forming his duty. He was often concerned with other 
friends in the important service of visiting families, which 
he was enabled to go through to satisfaction. 

In the minutes of the meeting of ministers and elders 
for this quarter, at the foot of a list of the members of 
that meeting, made about five years before his death, we 
find in his hand writing the following observation and re- 
flections. " As looking over the minutes made by per- 
sons who have put off this body, bath sometimes revived 
in me a thought how ages pass away; so this list may 
probably revive a like thought in some, when I, and the 
rest of the persons above-named, are centered in another 
state of being. — The Lord who was the guide of my 
youth, haih in tender mercies helped me hitherto; he hath 



APPENDIX. 175 

healed my wounds, he haih helped me out of grievous en- 
tanglements; he remains to be the strength of my life; to 
whom I desire to devote my?elf in time and in eternity." 

Signed, John Woolman. 

In the 12th month, 1771, he acquainted this meeting 
that he found his mind drawn towards a religious visit to 
friends in some parts of England, particularly in Yorkshire. 
In the first month 1772, he obtained our certificate, which 
was approved and indorsed by our quarterly meeting, and 
by the half year's meeting of ministers and elders at Phila- 
delphia. He embarked on his voyage in the fifth month, 
and arrived in London in the sixth month following, at the 
time of their annual meeting in that city. During his short 
visit to friends in that kingdom, we are informed that his 
services were acceptable and edifying. In his last illness 
he uttered many lively and comfortable expressions, being 
" resigned, having no will either to live or die," as appears 
by the testimony of friends at York in Great Britain, in 
the suburbs whereof, at the house of our friend Thomas 
Priestraan, he died of the small-pox, on the seventh of 
the tenth m.onth, 1772, and was buried in friends' burial- 
ground in that city, on the ninth of the same, after a solid 
meeting, held on the occasion, at their great meeting-house. 
He vfas aged near fifty-two, having been a minister up- 
wards of thirty years, during which time he belonged to 
Mount-holly particular meeting, which he diligently attend- 
ed when at home, and in health of body, and his labors of 
love, and pious care for the prosperity of fi'iends in the 
blessed truth, we hope may not be forgotten, but that his 
good works may be remembered to edification. 

Signed in, and by order of the said meeting, by 

SAMUEL ALLISON, Clerk. 

Read and approved at our quarterly-meeting, held at 
Burlington the 29th of the 8th month, 1774. 

Signed by order of the said meeting, 

DANIEL SMITH, Clerk. 



THE 



WORKS 



OF 



JOHN WOOLMAN 



CONSISTING OF 



CONSIDERATIONS ON THE KEEPING OF NE- 
GROES, REFLECTIONS ON VARIOUS SUBJECTS, 



AND 



AN EPISTLE TO THE QUARTERLY AND MONTH- 
LY MEETINGS OF FRIENDS. 



SOME CONSIDERATIONS 



ON THE 



KEEPING OF NEGROES 



RECOMxMENDED TO THE PROFESSORS OF CHRISTIANITY 
OF EVERY DENOMINATION. 



[First printed in the year 1754,] 



PART THE FIRST. 



INTRODUCTION. 

Customs generally approved, and opinions received by 
youth from their superiors, especially when they are suited 
to favorite inclinations, become like the natural produce of 
a soil; but as the judgments of God, by which the state of 
the soul must be tried, are without partiality, it would be 
the highest wisdom to forego customs and popular opinions, 
and to try the soul by the infallible standard, truth. 

Natural affection needs a carefal examination. Operat- 
ing upon us in a soft manner, it kindles desires of love and 
tenderness, and there is danger of taking it for something 
higher. To me it appears an instinct like that which in- 
ferior creatures have; each of them, we see, by the ties of 
nature, loves self best; that which is a part of self they 
love by the same tie or instinct. In them in some measure 
it does the offices of reason, by which among other things 
they watchfully keep, and orderly feed their helpless off- 
spring. Thus natural affection appears to be a branch of 
self-love, good in the animal race, and in us likewise with 



180 

proper limitations; but otherwise it is productive of evil, 
by exciting desires to promote some by means prejudicial 
to others. 

Our blessed Saviour seems to give a check to this irregu- 
lar fondness in nature, and, at the same time, a precedent 
for us: " Who is my mother, and who are my brethren?" 
thereby intimating, that the earthly ties of relationship are, 
comparatively, inconsiderable to those who, through a 
steady course of obedience, have come to the happy ex- 
perience of the spirit of God bearing witness with their 
spirits that they are his children. " And he stretched forth 
his hand towards his disciples, and said, behold my mother 
and my brethren: for whosoever shall do the will of my 
Father which is in heaven," arrives at the noble part of 
true relationship, " the same is my brother, and sister, and 
mother." Matt. xii. 49. This doctrine agrees well with 
a state truly complete, in which love necessarily operates 
according to the agreeableness of things, on principles un- 
alterable, and in themselves perfect. 

If endeavoring to have my children eminent among men 
after my death, be what no reasons grounded on these 
principles, can be brought to support; to be temperate in 
my pursuit after gain , and to keep always within the bounds 
of these principles, is then an indispensable duty, and to 
depart from it, a dark, unfruitful toil. In our present con- 
dition, to love our children is needful; but except this love 
proceeds from the True heavenly principle, which sees be- 
yond earthly treasures, it will rather be injurious than of 
any real advantage to them. When the fountain is corrupt, 
the streams must necessarily be impure. 

That important injunction of our Savior, (Matt. vi. 33.) 
with the promise annexed, contains a short but comprehen- 
sive view of our duty and happiness. If it is then the 
business of mankind in this life first to seek another; if this 
cannot be done but by attending to the means: if a sum- 
mary of the means is, not to do that to another which, in 
like circumstances, w^e would not have done unto us, these 
are points of moment, and worthy of ourmost serious con- 
sideration. 

I write with reluctance on this subject, and the hints 



181 

given are in as general terms as my concern will allow. I 
know it is a point about which, in all its branches, men who 
appear to aim well are not generally agreed; and for that 
reason, I choose to avoid being very particular. If I may 
happily let drop any thing that may induce those who are 
concerned in the practice to a close thinking on the sub- 
ject, the candid among them may easily do it such further 
justice as, on an impartial inquiry, it may appear to deserve; 
and such an inquiry 1 would earnestly recommend. 



16 



SOME CONSIDERATIONS, &c. 



*' Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my breth- 
ren, ye have done it unto me." — Matt. xxv. 40. 

There are often different motives for the same actions; 
one person does that from a generous heart, which another 
does for selfish ends; the like may be said in this case. 
There are various circumstances among those that keep 
negroes, and different ways by which they fall under their 
care; and I doubt not, there are many well-disposed per- 
sons among them, who desire rather to manage wisely and 
justly in this difficult matter, than to make gain of it. But 
the disadvantage which these poor Africans lie under, in 
an enlightened Christian country, having often filled me 
with real sadness, and been like undigested matter on my 
mind, I now think it ixiy duty, through Divine aid, to offer 
some thoughts thereon to the consideration of others. 

When we remember that all nations are of one blood, 
Gen. iii. 20. that in this world we are but sojourners, that 
we are subject to the like afflictions and infirmities of body, 
the like disorders and frailties of mind, the like temptations, 
the same death, and the same judgment, and that the all- 
wise Being is Judge and Lord over us all, it seems to raise 
an idea of a general brotherhood, and a disposition easy to 
be touched with a feeling of each other's afflictions; but 
when we forget these things, and look chiefly at our out- 
ward circumstances, in this and some ages past, constantly 
retaining in our minds the distinction between us and the 
negroes, with respect to our knowledge and improvement 
in things divine, natural and artificial, our breasts being apt 
to be filled with fond notions of superiority, there is danger 
of erring in our conduct towards them. 



18S 

We allow tliem to be of the same species with ourselves; 
the difference is, we are in a higher slation, and enjoy 
greater favors than they. And when our Heavenly Father 
thus endoweth some of his children with distinguished gifts, 
they are intended for good ends; but if those who are thus 
gifted are thereby hfted up above their brethren, not con- 
sidering themselves as debtors to the weak, nor behaving 
themselves as faithful stewards, none who judge impartially 
can suppose them free from ingratitude. 

When a people dwell under the liberal distribution of 
favors from heaven, it behoves them carefully to inspect 
their ways, and to consider the purposes for which those 
favors were bestowed; lest through forgetfulness of God, 
and misusing his gifts, they incur his heavy displeasure, 
whose judgments are just and equal, who exalleth and 
humbleth to the dust as He sees meet. 

It appears by holy record, that men under high favors 
have been apt to err in their opinions concerning others. 
Thus Israel, according to the description of the prophet, 
though exceedingly corrupted and degenerated, yet remem- 
bered they were the chosen people of God; and could say, 
" Stand by thyself, come not near to me, for I am holier 
than thou." Isa. Ixv. 5. That this was no chance lan- 
guage, but their common opinion of other people, more 
fully appears, by considering the circumstances wliich at- 
tended, when God was beginning to fulfil his precious 
promises concerning the gathering of the Gentiles. 

The Most High, in a vision, undeceived Peter; He first 
prepared his heart to believe; and at the house of Corne- 
lius, showed him of a certainty that God was no respecter 
of persons. The effusion of the Holy Ghost upon a peo- 
ple, with whom the Jewish Christians would not so much 
as eat, was strange to them. All they of the circumcision 
were astonished to see it; and the apostles and brethren of 
Judea contended with Peter about it, till he, having re- 
hearsed the wdiole matter, and fully shown that the Fa- 
ther's love was unlimited, they were struck with admiration, 
and cried out, " Then hath God also to the Gentiles grant- 
ed repentance unto life!" 



184 

The opinion of peculiar favors being confined to them, 
was deeply rooted, or else the above instance had been less 
strange to them, for the following reasons: First, they were 
generally acquainted with the writings of the prophets, by 
whom this time was repeatedly spoken of, and pointed at. 
Secondly, Our blessed Lord a short time before, had ex- 
pressly said, " Other sheep 1 have, which are not of this 
fold, them also I niust bring," &c. Lastly, his words to 
ihem after his resurrection, at the very time of his ascen- 
sion, " Ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem, 
and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost 
parts of the earth." Acts i. 8. These concurring cir- 
cumstances might have raised a strong expectation of see- 
ing such a time; yet wlien it came, it proved matter of of- 
fence and astonishment. 

To consider mankind otherwise than brethren, to think 
favors are peculiar to one nation, to the exclusion of oth- 
ers, plainly supposes a darkness in the understanding; for 
as God's love is universal, so when the mind is sufficiently 
influenced by it, it begets a likeness of itself, and the heart 
is enlarged towards all men. Again, to conclude a people 
who ungratefully receive favors, and apply them to bad 
ends, froward, perverse, and worse by nature than others, 
will excite a behavior towards them unbecoming the excel- 
lence of true religion. 

To prevent such error, let us calmly consider their cir- 
cumstances; and to do it the better, make their case ours. 
Suppose that our ancestors and we had been exposed to 
constant servitude in the more servile and inferior employ- 
ments of life; that we had been destitute of the help of 
reading and good company; that among ourselves we had 
(ew wise and pious instructors; that the religious among 
our superiors seldom look notice of us; that while others, 
in ease, had plentifully heaped up the fruit of our labor, 
we had received barely sufficient to relieve nature; and 
being wholly at the command of others, had generally been 
treated as a contemptible, ignorant part of mankind; should 
we, in that case, be less abject than they now are ? Again, 
if oppression be so hard to bear, that a wise man is made 
mad by it, Eccl. vii. 7. then we may reasonably expect 



185 

that a series of those things would alter the behavior and 
manners of a people. 

When our property is taken contrary to our mind, by 
means appearing to us unjust, it is only through Divine in- 
fluence, and the enlargement of heart thence proceeding, 
that we can love our reputed oppressors. If the negroes 
fall short in this, an uneasy, if not a disconsolate disposi- 
tion, will be awakened, and remain like seeds in their 
minds, producing sloth and many other habits that appear 
odious to us; with which had they been freemen, they per- 
haps would not have been chargable. These, and other 
circumstances rightly considered, will lessen that too great 
disparity which some make between us and them. 

Integrity of heart hath appeared in some of them, so that 
if we continue in the word of Christ (previous to disciple- 
ship, John viii. 31.) and our conduct towards them be 
seasoned with his love, we may hope to see the good ef- 
fect of it; this is in a good degree, the case with some 
into whose hands they have fallen; but that too many treat 
them otherwise, not seeming conscious of any neglect, is 
alas! too evident. 

When self-love presides in our minds, our opinions are 
biased in our own favor. In this condition, being con- 
cerned with a people so situated, that they have no voice to 
plead their own cause, there is danger of using ourselves 
to an undisturbed' partiality, till by long custom, the mind 
becomes reconciled to it, and the judgment itself infected. 

Humbly to apply to God for wisdom, that we may be 
enabled to see things as they are, and as they ought to be, 
is very needful; hereby the hidden things of darkness may 
be brought to light, and the judgment made clear; we shall 
then consider mankind as brethren. Though different de- 
grees, and a variety of qualifications and abilities, one de- 
pendent on another, be admitted; yet high thoughts will be 
laid aside, and all men will be treated as becometh the sons 
of one father, agreeably to the doctrine of Christ Jesus, 
who hath laid down the best criterion, by which mankind 
ought mutually to judge of their own conduct, and be judg- 
ed by others, viz. " Whatsoever ye would that men should 
do to you, do ye even so to them." I take it that all men 

16* 



186 

by nature are equally entitled to the equity of this rule, 
and are under the indispensable obligations of it. One man 
ought not to look upon another man, or society of men, as 
so far beneath him that he should not put himself in their 
place, in all his actions towards them, and bring all to this 
test, viz. " How should I approve of this conduct, were 
I in their circumstance, and they in mine?" A. Arscot's 
Considerations, p. iii. fol. 107, 

This doctrine being of a moral unchangeable nature, hath 
been likewise inculcated in the former dispensation ; "If 
a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex 
him; but the stranger that dwelleth with you, shall be unto 
you as one born amongst you, and thou shalt love him as 
thyself ;" Lev. xix. 33, 34. Had these people come vol- 
untarily and dwelt among us, to have called them strangers 
would be proper. But their being brought by force, with 
regret, and a languishing mind, may well raise compassion 
in a heart rightly disposed; and there is nothing in such 
treatment, which on a wise and judicious consideration, will 
in any wise lessen their right of being treated as strangers. 
If the treatment which many of them meet with, be rightly 
examined and compared with these precepts, " Thou 
shalt not vex him nor oppress him; he shall be as one born 
amongst you, and thou shalt love him as thyself;" there 
will appear an important difference between them. 

It may be objected, there is cost of purchase, and risk 
of life to them who possess them, and therefore it is need- 
ful that they make the best use of their time. In a prac- 
tice just and reasonable, such objections may have weight; 
but iY the work be wrong from the beginning, there is little 
or no force in them. If I purchase a man who hath never 
forfeited his liberty, the natural right of freedom is in him; 
and shall I keep him and his posterity in servitude and ig- 



norance 



•'■ How should I approve of this conduct, were I in his 
circumstances, and he in mine ?" It may be thought, that 
to treat them as we would willingly be treated, our gain by 
them would be inconsiderable; and it would be better in 
divers respects, that there were none in our country. 

We may further consider, that they are now among us, and 



187 

that those of our nation are the cause of their being here; 
that whatsoever difficuhy accrues therefrom, we are justly 
chargeable with it; and to bear all inconveniences attend- 
ing it, with a serious and weighty concern of mind to do 
our duty by them, is the best we can do. To seek a rem- 
edy by continuing the oppression, because we have power 
to do so, and see others do it, is, I apprehend, not doing 
as we would be done by. 

How deeply soever men are involved in the most exqui- 
site difficulties, sincerity of heart, and upright walking be- 
fore God, and freely submitting to his Providence, is the 
most sure remedy. He only is able to relieve, not only 
persons but nations in their greatest calamities. David in 
a great strait, when the sense of his past error, and the full 
expectation of an impending calamity as the reward of it, 
were united to the aggravating of his distress, said after 
some deliberation, " Let me fall now into the hand of the 
Lord, for very great are his mercies; but let me not fall in- 
to the hand of man." 1 Chron. xxi. 3 3. 

To act continually with integrity of heart, above all nar- 
row or selfish motives, is a sure token of our being par- 
takers of thpt salvation which God hath appointed for walls 
and bulwarks; Isaiah, xxvi. L and is beyond all contradic- 
tion, a more happy situation than can ever be promised by 
the utmost reach of art and power united, not proceeding 
from heavenly wisdom. 

A supply of nature's lawful wants, joined with a peace- 
ful, humble mind, is the truest happiness in this life; and if 
we arrive at this, and continue to walk in the path of the 
just, our case will be truly happy. And though herein we 
may part with, or miss of some glaring shows of riches, 
and leave our children little but wise instructions, a good 
example, and the knowledge of some honest employment; 
yet these, with the blessing of Providence, are sufficient 
for their happiness, and are more likely to promote it, than 
laying up treasures for them, which are often rather a snare, 
than any real benefit; especially to those vv^ho instead of 
being exampled to temperance, are in all things taught to 
prefer the getting of riches as the principal business of this 
life; and to covet the temporal distinctions they give. 



188 

These readily overlook the true happiness of man, as it 
results from the enjoyment of all things in the fear of God; 
and miserably substituting an inferior good, dangerous in 
the acquiring, and uncertain in the fruition, they are sub- 
jected to many disappointments, and every sweet carries 
its sting. 

It is the conclusion of our blessed Lord and of his apos- 
tles, as appears by their lives and doctrines, that the high- 
est delights of sense, or the most pleasing visible objects, 
ought ever to be accounted infinitely inferior to that real 
intellectual happiness suited to man in his primitive inno- 
cence, and now to be found in true renovation of mind: 
and that the comforts of our present life, the things most 
grateful to us, ought always to be received with temperance, 
and should never be made the chief objects of our desire, 
hope, or love; but that our whole heart and affections be 
principally engaged in looking to that " city which hath 
foundations, whose maker and builder is God." Did we 
so improve the gifts bestow^ed on us, that our children 
might have an education suited to these doctrines, and our 
example to confirm it, we might rejoice in the hope of their 
being heirs of an inheritance incorruptible. This itiherit- 
ance, as Christians, we esteem the most valuable; and how 
then can we fail to desire it for our children.'' O that we 
were consistent with ourselves, in pursuing means neces- 
sary to obtain it! 

]t appears by experience, that when children are edu- 
cated in fulness, ease, and idleness, evil habits are more 
prevalent, than ihey commonly are among such as are pru- 
dently employed in tiie necessary affairs of life. If children 
are not only educated in the way of great temptation, but 
have also the opportunity of lording it over their fellow- 
creatures, and being masters of men in their childhood, 
hov/ can we hope otherwise than that their tender minds 
will be possessed WMth thoughts too high for them; which 
gaining strength by continuance like a slow current, will 
gradually separate them from an acquaintance with that hu- 
mility and meekness in w^iich alone lasting happiness can 
be enjoyed? 

Man is born to labor, and experience abundantly show- 



189 

eth that it is for our good; but when the powerful lay the 
burden on the inferior, without affording them a Christian 
education, and suitable opportunity of improving the mind, 
and such a treatment as we in their case should approve, 
in order that the powerful may live at ease, fare sumptu- 
ously, and lay up riches for their posterity, it seems to con- 
tradict the design of Providence, and I doubt is sometimes 
the effect of a perverted mind. For while the life of one 
is made grievous by the rigor of another, it entails misery 
on both. 

Among the manifold works of Providence, displayed in 
the different ages of the world, the following, as well as 
many others, may afford instruction. 

Abraham was called of God to leave his country and 
kindred, to sojourn among strangers; through famine, and 
danger of death, he was forced to flee from one kingdom 
to another. At length he not only had assurance of being 
the father of many nations, but became a mighty prince. 
Gen. xxiii. 6. 

Remarkable were the dealings of God with Jacob in a 
low estate; the just sense he retained of them, after his 
advancement, appears by his words: " I am not worthy of 
the least of all thy mercies." Gen. xxxii. 10 xlviii. 15. 

The numerous afflictions of Joseph are very singular; 
and the particular providence of God therein is no less 
manifest. He at length becam.e governor of Egypt, and 
famous for wisdom and virtue. 

Few amongst us are ignorant of the series of troubles 
which David passed through, and yet he afterwards became 
as one of the great men of the earth. Some evidence of 
the Divine wisdom appears in these things; some who 
were intended for high stations, have first been very low 
and dejected, that truth might be sealed on their hearts; 
and that the characters there imprinted by bitterness and 
adversity, might in after years remain, suggesting compas- 
sionate ideas, and in their prosperity quicken their regard 
to those in the like condition; this further appears in the 
case of Israel. They were well acquainted with grievous 
sufferings, with a long and rigorous servitude; and then 
through many notable events, were made chief among the 



190 

nations. To iliem we find a repetition of precepts to the 
purpose aforesaid; though, for ends agreeable to infinite 
wisdom, they were chosen as a peculiar people for a time; 
yet the Most High acquaints them that his love is not con- 
fined, but extends to the stranger; and, to excite their 
compassion, reminds them of times past; " Ye were stran- 
gers in the land of Egypt." Deut. x. 19. Again, '' Thou 
shall not oppress a stranger, for ye know the heart of a 
stranger, seeing ye were strangers in the land of Egypt." 
Exod. xxiii. 9. 

If we call to mind our beginning, some of us may find 
a time wherein our fathers were under afflictions, reproach- 
es, and manifold sufferings. Respecting our progress in 
this land, the time is short since our beginning was small 
and our number few, compared with the native inhabitants. 
He that sleeps not by day nor by night, hath watched over 
us, and kept ns as the apple of his eye. His Almighty 
arm hath been round about us, and hath saved us from 
dangers. 

The wilderness and solitary deserts in which our fathers 
passed the days of their pilgrimage, are now turned into 
pleasant^ fields; the natives are gone from before us, 
and we are peaceably established in the possession of the 
land, enjoying our civil and religious liberties; and while 
many parts of the world have groaned under the heavy 
calamities of war, our habitation remains quiet, and our 
land fruitful. 

When we trace back the steps we have trodden, and 
see how the Lord hath opened a way for us in the wilder- 
ness, it will easily appear to the wise, that all this was not 
done to be buried in oblivion; but to prepare a people for 
more fruitful returns; the remembrance thereof ought to 
humble us in prosperity, and to excite in us a Christian 
benevolence towards our inferiors. 

If we do not consider these things aright, but, through 
a stupid indolence, conceive views of interest separate from 
the general good of the great brotherhood, and in pursu- 
ance thereof, treat our inferiors with rigor to increase our 
wealth, and gain riches for our children; what shall we do 
" when God riseth up; and when he visiteth, what shall 



191 

we answer Him? Did not He that made us make them; 
and did not one fasaion us in the womb?" Job xxxi, 13, 
14. To our great Master we stand or fall, to judge or 
condemn us as is most suitable to his wisdom or authority. 
My inclination is to persuade, and intreat, and simply give 
hints of my way of thinking. 

If the Christian religion be considered, both with regard 
to its doctrines, and the happy influence which it hath on 
the minds and manners of all real Christians, it is reasona- 
ble to think, that the miraculous manifestation thereof to 
the world, is a kindness beyond expression. Are we the 
people thus favored? are they whose minds are opened, 
influenced and governed by the Spirit of Christ, and there- 
by made sons of God? Is it not a fair conclusion that we, 
like our heavenly Father, ought in our degree to be active 
in the same great cause — the eternal happiness of our 
whole families, at least, and more if thereto capacitated? 

If we, by the operation of the Spirit of Christ, become 
heirs with him in the kingdom of his Father, and are re- 
deemed from the alluring counterfeit joys of this world, 
and the joy of Christ remain in us, it seems a contradiction 
to suppose that one remaining in this happy condition, can, 
for the sake of earthly riches, not only deprive his fellow- 
creatures of the sweetness of freedom, (which rightly used, 
is one of the greatest temporal blessings) but also neglect 
to use proper means for their acquaintance, with the Holy 
Scriptures, and the advantage of true religion. 

Whoever rightly advocates the cause of some, thereby 
promotes the good of all. The state of mankind was har- 
monious in the beginning; and though sin hath introduced 
discord, yet through the wonderful love of God in Christ 
Jesus our Lord, the way is open for our redemption, and 
means are appointed to restore us to primitive harmony: 
so that if one suffer by the unfaithfulness of another, the 
mind, the most noble part of him that occasions the dis- 
cord, is thereby alienated from its true and real happiness. 

Our duty and interest are inseparably united, and when 
we neglect or misuse our talents, we necessarily depart 
from the heavenly fellowship, and are in the way to the 
greatest of evils. Therefore to examine and prove our^. 



192 

selves, to find what harmony the power presiding in us 
bears with the Divine nature, is a duty not more incumbent 
and necessary, than it is beneficial. 

In Holy Writ the Divine Being saiih of Himself, " I 
am the Lord, which exercise loving-kindness, judgment, 
and righteousness, in tlie earth: for in these things I de- 
light, saith the Lord." Jer. ix. 24. Again, speaking in 
the way of man, to show his compassion to Israel, who 
were then humbled under a calamity, occasioned by their 
wickedness, it is said, His soul was grieved for their mise- 
ries. Judges X. 16. If we consider the life of our blessed 
Savior when on earth, as it is recorded by his followers, we 
shall find, that one uniform desire for the etern;il and tem- 
poral good of mankind, discovered itself in all his actions. 

If we observe men, both apostles and others, in many 
different ages, who have really come to the unity of the 
Spirit, and the fellowship of the saints, we shall still find 
the like disposition; and that the desire of the real happi- 
ness of mankind, has in them out-balanced the desire of 
ease, liberty, and many limes of life itself. If upon a true 
search, we find that our natures are so far renewed, that 
to exercise righteousness and loving-kindness, according 
to our ability, towards all men, without respect of persons, 
is easy to us, or is our delight; if our love be so orderly 
and regular, that he who doeth the will of our Father who 
is in heaven, appears in our view to be our^nearest relation, 
our brother, and sister, and mother; if this be our case, 
there is a good foundation to hope, that the blessing of 
God will sweeten our treasures during our stay in this life, 
and that our memory will be savory when we are entered 
into rest. 

To conclude, it is a truth most certain, that a life guided 
by wisdom from above, agreeable with justice, equity, and 
mercy, is throughout consistent and amiable, and truly 
beneficial to society; the serenity and calmness of mind 
which attend it, affords an unparalleled comfort in this life, 
and the end of it is blessed. And it is no less true that 
they who, in the midst of high favors, remain ungrateful, 
and under all the advantages that a Christian can desire, 
are selfish, earthly, and sensual, do miss tlie true fountain 



193 

of happiness, and wander in a maze of dark anxiety, in 
which all their treasures are insufficient to quiet their minds. 
Hence, from an insatiable craving, they neglect doing good 
with what they have acquired, and too often add oppression 
to vanity, that they may compass more. " O that they 
were wise, that they understood this, that they would con- 
sider their latter end!" Deut. xxxii. 29. 



17 



CONSIDERATIONS 



ON THE 



KEEPING OF NEGROES, 



RECO:\IMENDED TO THE PROFESSORS OF CHRISTIANITY 
OF EVERY DENOMINATION. 

[First printed m the Year 1762.] 



PART THE SLCOND. 



PREFACE. 

All our actions are of the like nature with their root; 
and the Most High weigheth them more skilfully than men 
can weigh them one for another. I believe that one Su- 
preme Being made and supports the world; nor can I 
worship any other Deity without being an idolater, and 
guilty of wickedness. 

Many nations have believed in, and worshipped a plu- 
rality of deities; but I do not believe they were therefore 
all wicked. Idolatry indeed is wickedness; but it is the 
thing, not the name, which is so. Real idolatry is to pay 
that adoration to a creature, which is known to be due only 
to the true God. 

He who professeth to believe in one Almighty Creator, 
and in his son Jesus Christ, and is yet more intent on the 
honors, profits, and friendships of the world, than he is, in 
singleness of heart, to stand faithful to the Christian re- 
ligion, is in the channel of idolatry; while the Gentile, 
who notwithstanding some mistaken opinions, is established 



195 

in tfie true principle of virtue, and humbly adores an Al- 
mighty power, may be of that number who fear God, and 
work righteousness. 

I believe the bishop of Rome assumes a power that does 
not belong to any officer in the church of Christ; and if I 
should knowingly do any thing tending to strengthen him in 
that capacity, it would be great iniquity. There are many 
thousands of people who, by their profession, acknowledge 
him to be the representative of Jesus Christ on earth; and 
to say that none of them are upright in heart, would be 
contrary to my sentiments. 

Men who sincerely apply their minds to true virtue, and 
find an inward support from above, by which all vicious in- 
clinations are made subject; who love God sincerely, and 
prefer the real good of mankind universally to their own 
private interest; though these, through the strength of edu- 
cation and tradition, may remain under some great specu- 
lative errors, it would be uncharitable to say, that therefore 
God rejects them. The knowledge and goodness of Him, 
who creates, supports, and gives understanding to all men, 
are superior to the various states and circumstances of his 
creatures, which to us appear the most difficult. 

The apostles and primitive Christians did not censure all 
the Gentiles as wicked men, Rom. ii. 14.; Col. iii. 11.; 
but as they were favored with a gift to discern things more 
clearly, respecting the worship of the true God, with much 
firmness they declared against the worshipping of idols; 
and with true patience, endured many sufferings on that ac- 
count. Great numbers of faithful Protestants have con- 
tended for the truth, in opposition to papal errors; and, 
with true fortitude, have laid down their lives in the con- 
flict, without saying, that no man was saved who made 
profession of that religion. 

While we have no right to keep men as servants for term 
of life, but that of superior power; to do this, with a de- 
sign to profit ourselves and our families, by their labor, is 
I believe wrong; but I do not believe that all who have 
kept slaves, have therefore been chargeable with guilt. If 
their motives were free from selfishness, and their slaves 
content, they were a sort of freemen; which I believe hath 
sometirnes been the case. 



196 

Whatever a man does in the spirit of charity, to him it 
is not sin; and while he lives and acts in this spirit, he 
learns all things essential to his happiness as an individual: 
and if he doth not see that any injury or injustice to any 
other person, is necessarily promoted by any part of his 
form of government, I believe the merciful Judge will not 
lay iniquity to his charge. Yet others, who live in the 
same spirit of charity, from a clear convincement, may see 
the relation of one thing to another, and the necessary ten- 
dency of each; and hence it may be absolutely binding on 
them to desist from some part of conduct, which some 
good men have pursued. 



197 



CONSIDERATIONS, &c. 



** Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small 
as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the 
judgment ia God's!" — Deut. i. 17. 

As some in most religious societies among the English, 
are concerned in importing or purchasing the inhabitants of 
Africa as slaves, and as the professors of Christianity of 
several other nations do the like; these circumstances tend 
to make people less apt to examine the practice so closely 
as they would if such a thing had not hitherto been, but 
was now for the first time proposed. It is however our 
individual duty, as creatures accountable to our Creator, 
to employ rightly the understanding which He hath given 
us, in humbly endeavoring to be acquainted with his will 
concerning us, and with the nature and tendency of those 
things which we practice: for so long as justice remains in 
tiie world, so many people of reputation being engaged with 
wrong things, is no excuse for others joining with them, 
nor does it make the consequence of their proceedings 
less dreadful ia the final issue^ than it would other- 
wise be. 

When unrighteousness is justified from one age to an- 
other, it is like dark matter gathering into clouds over us. 
We may know that this gloom will remain till the cause be 
removed by a reformation, or change of times; and we 
may feel a desire, from a love of equity, to speak on the 
occasion; yet when error is so strong that it may not be 
spoken against without some prospect of inconvenience to 
the speaker, this difficulty is likely to operate on our weak- 

*17 



198 

ness, and to quench tlie good desire in us; except we dwell 
so steadily under the weight of it, as to be made willing to 
" endure hardness" on that account. 

When men exert their talents against vices, generally ac- 
counted such, the ill effects whereof are presently perceiv- 
ed in a government, all who regard their own temporal good, 
are likely to approve the work. But when that which is 
inconsistent with perfect equity, hath the law or counte- 
nance of the great in its favor, though the tendency thereof 
be contrary to the true happiness of mankind, in an equal 
if not a greater degree than many things accounted re- 
proachful to Christians; yet, as these ill effects are not 
generally perceived, they who labor to dissuade from those 
things, which peo|)le believe accord with their interest, 
have many difficulties to encounter. 

The repeated charges which Cod gave to his prophets, 
imply the danger they were in of erring on this hand. 
*■' Be not afraid of their faces; for I ain with thee, to de- 
liver thee, saith the Lord." — Jer. i. 8. " Speak all the 
words that 1 command thee to speak to them; diminish not 
a word" — Jer. xxvi. 2. " And thou, son of man, be not 
afraid of them, nor dismayed at their looks. Speak my 
words to them, whether they will hear or whether they will 
forbear." — Ezek. ii. 6, 7. 

Under an apprehension of duty, I offer son)e further con- 
siderations on this subject, having endeavored some years 
to considei' it candidly. I have observed people of our 
own color, \^hose abilities have been uneqisal to the man- 
agement of the affairs which relate to their convenient sub- 
sistence, taken care of by others, and the profit of such 
work as they could do, applieil towards their support. I 
believe there are sue!) among negroes; and that some peo- 
ple, in whose hands they are, keep them with no view of 
outv\ard profit, do not consider them as black men, who, 
as such, ought to serve white men; but account them per- 
sons v.ho have need of guardians, and as such take care of 
them: yet, where equal care is taken to educate both 
classes, I do not apprehend cases of this sort are likely to 
occur more frequently among one sort of people than an- 
other. 



199 

it appears to me that the slave trade was founded, and 
hath generally been carried on, in a wrong spirit; that the 
effects of it are detrimental to the real prosperity of our 
country; and will become more so, except we cease from 
the common motives for keeping them, and treat ihem in 
future agreeably to truth and pure justice. 

Negroes may be imported, who, for their cruelty to their 
countrymen, and the evil disposition of their minds, may 
be unfit to be at liberty; and if we, as lovers of righteous- 
ness, undertake the management of them, we should have 
a full and clear knowledge of their crimes, and of those 
circumstances which might operate in their favor; but the 
difficulty of obtaining this is so great, that we have great 
reason to be cautious therein. But, should it plainly appear, 
that absolute subjection is a condition the most proper for 
the person purchased, yet the innocent cliildren ought not 
to be made slaves because their parents sinned. 

We read in Holy Scripture of some families suffering, 
where mention is only made of the heads of the tamily 
committing wickedness; and it is likely that the degenerate 
.lews, misunderstanding some occurrences of this kind, 
took occasion to charge God with being unequal; so that 
a saying became common, '' The fathers have eaten sour 
grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge." Jere- 
miah and Ezekiel, two of the inspired prophets, who lived 
near the same time, w^ere concerned to correct this error. 
Ezekiel enlarges on the subject. First he reproves them 
for their error. ^' What mean ye, that ye do so," chap, 
xviii. verse 2. '' As I live saith the Lord God, ye shall 
not have cccasioa any more to use this proverb in Israel." 
The words " any more" have reference to time past; in- 
timating, that though they had not righdy understood some 
things they had heard or seen, and thence supposed the 
proverb to be well grounded; yet henceforth they might 
know of a certainty, tliat the w-ays of God are all equal; 
that as sure as the Most High liveth, so sure men are only 
answerable for their own sins. He thus sums up the mat- 
ter. '' The soul that sinneth it shall die. The son shall 
not bear the iniquity of the father; neither shall the father 
bear the iniquity of the son. The righteousness of the 



200 

righteous shall be upon him; and the wickedness of the 
wicked shall be upon him." v. 20. 

Wicked men are commonly a means of corrupting the 
succeeding age; and thereby of hastening those outward 
calamities, which fall on nations, when their iniquities are 
full. Men may pursue means which are not agreeable to 
perfect purity, with a view to increase the wealth and hap- 
piness of their offspring, and may thereby make the way of 
virtue more difficult to them. And though the ill example 
of a parent, or a multitude, does not excuse a man in doing 
evil, yet the mind being early impressed with vicious no- 
tions and practices, and nurtured up in ways of getting 
treasure, which are not the ways of truth; this wrong spirit 
by being strengthened and first getting possession, frequent- 
ly prevents due attention lo the true spirit of wisdom, so 
that they exceed In wickedness those who lived before 
them. And though parents labor, and think by so doing 
to forward the happiness of their children, it proves a 
means of forwarding their calamity. This being the case 
in the age preceding the grievous calamities in the siege of 
Jerusalem, and carrying .Tudah captive to Bahylon, they 
might say with propriety, this came upon us because our 
fathers forsook God, and because we did worse than our 
fathers. See Jer. vii. 26. 

As the generation preceding them inwardly turned away 
from God, who yet waited to be gracious; and as they in 
the succeeding age, continued in those things which neces- 
sarily separated from perfect goodness, growing more 
stubborn, till the judgments of God were poured upon 
them; they might properly say, '■'■ Our fathers have sinned, 
and we have borne their iniquities. " Lam. v. 7. And 
yet wicked as their fathers were, had they not succeeded 
them in their wickedness, they had not borne their iniqui- 
ties. 

To suppose that an innocent man shall at this day be ex- 
cluded from the common rules of justice; be deprived of 
that liberty, which is the natural right of human creatures; 
and be a slave to others during life, on account of a sin 
committed by his immediate parents, or by Ham, the son 
of Noah; is a supposition too gross to be admitted into the 



201 

mind of any person who sincerely desires to be governed 
by solid principles. 

It is alleged, in favor of the practice, that Joshua made 
slaves of the Gibeonites. What men do by the command 
of God, and what comes to pass as a consequence of their 
neglect, as in the latter case, are different. It was the ex- 
press command of the Almighty to Israel, concerning the 
inhabitants of the promised land, " Thou shalt make no 
covenant with them, nor with their gods: they shall not 
dwell in thy land." — Exod. xxiii. 32, 33. The Gibeon- 
ites came craftily, telling Joshua, that they were come 
from a far country; that their elders had sent them to make 
a league v.ith the people of Israel; and as an evidence of 
their being foreigners, showed their old clothes, &c. "And 
the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel 
at the mouth of the Lord; and Joshua made peace with 
them, and made a league with them, to let them live; and 
the princes of the congregation sware unto them." — 
Josh. ix. 14, 15. 

When the imposition was discovered, the congregation 
murmured against the princes: " But all the princes said 
unto all the congregation, we have sworn unto them by the 
Lord God of Israel; now, therefore, we may not touch ihem; 
we will even let them live, lest wrath be upon us; but let 
them be hewers of wood, and drawers of water into all 
the congregation." Omitting to ask counsel, involved 
them in great difficulty. The Gibeonites were of those 
cities, of which the Lord said, " Thou shalt save alive 
nothing that breatheth;" and of the stock of the Hivites, 
concerning whom he commanded by name, " Thou shalt 
smite them, and utterly destroy them." Thus Joshua and 
the princes unwittingly had made a league w^ith them, to 
let them live; and in this strait they resolve to make them 
servants. Joshua and the princes suspected them to be 
deceivers: " Peradventure you dwell among us; and how 
shall we make a league with you?" Which words show 
that they remembered the command before mentioned; and 
yet did not inquire at the mouth of the Lord, as Moses 
directed Joshua, when he gave him a charge respecting his 
duty as chief man among that people. Numb, xxvii. 21. 



20:2 

By this omission things became so situated, that Joshua 
and the princes could not execute the judgments of God 
on the Gibeonites, without violating the oath which they 
had made. 

Moses transgressed at the waters of Meribah; and doubt- 
less he soon repented; for the Loid was with him. And 
it is likely that Joshua was deeply humbled, under a sense 
of his omission; for it appears that God continued him in 
his office, and spared ihe lives of those people, for the sake 
of the league and oath made in his name. 

The wickedness of these people was great, and they 
were worthy to die, or perfect justice would not have 
passed sentence of death on them; and as their execution 
was prevented by this league and oath, they were, it ap- 
pears, content to be servants: " As it seemeth good and 
right unto thee to do unto us, do." Instead of death, 
these criminals had the sentence of servitude pronounced on 
them, in these Vvords: " Now therefore ye are cursed; and 
there shall none of you be freed from being bondmen, and 
hewers of wood and drawers of water for the house of my 
God." 

We find, Deut. xx. 10, that there were cities far distant 
from Canaan, against w'hich Israel went to battle; unto 
which they were to proclaim peace, and if the inhabitants 
made answer of peace, and opened their gates, they were 
not to destroy them, but to make them tributaries. The 
children of Israel were then the Lord's host, and th^ exe- 
cutioners of bis judgments on people hardened in wicked- 
ness. They were not to go to battle, but by his appoint- 
ment. The men who were chief in his army, had their 
instruction from the Almighty; sometimes immediately, and 
sometimes by the ministry of angels. Of these, among 
others were Moses, Joshua, Olhniel, and Gideon; see 
Exod. iii. 2, and xviii. 19. Josh. v. 13. Those people 
far off from Canaan, against whom Israel was sent to bat- 
tle, were so corrupt, that the Creator of the universe saw 
it good to change their situation; and their subjection, 
though probably more mild than absolute slavery, was to 
last little or no longer than while Israel remained in the true 
spirit of government. 



203 

It was pronounced by Moses, the prophet, as a conse- 
quence of their wickedness. " The stranger that is with- 
in thee shall get up above thee very high; and thou shalt 
conne down very low. He shall be the head, and thou 
shalt be the tail." Deut. xxviii. 43, 44. This we find in 
some measure verified in their being made tributaries to 
the Moabites, Midianites, Amorites and Philistines. 

It is alleged in favor of the practice of keeping slaves, 
that the Jews by their law made slaves of the heathen. 
*' Moreover, of the children of the strangers that do sojourn 
among you, of them shall ye buy, and of their families that 
are with you, which they begat in your land: and they shall 
be your possession. And ye shall take them as an inherit- 
ance for your children after you, to inherit them for a pos- 
session; they shall be your bondmen for ever." Lev. xxv. 
45. 46." It is difficult for us to have any certain know- 
ledge of the mind of Moses, in regard to keeping slaves, 
any other way than by looking upon him as a true servant 
of God, whose mind and conduct were regulated by an in- 
ward principle of justice and equity. To admit a suppo- 
sition that he in that case was drawn from perfect equity, 
by the alliance of outward kindred, would be to disown his 
authority. 

Abraham had servants born in his house, and bought 
Avith his money; '' And the Almighty said of Abraham, I 
know him, that he will order his house after him." Which 
implies, that he was a father, an instructor, and a good 
governor over his peoi)le. And Moses, considered as a 
man of God, must necessarily have had a prospect of some 
real advantage in the strangers and heathens being servants 
for a time to the Israelites. 

As mankind had received and established many errone- 
ous opinions and hurtful customs, their living and convers- 
ing with the Jews, while the Jews stood faithful to 
their principles, might be helpful to remove those errors, 
and reform their manners. But for men, with private 
views, to assume an absolute power over the persons and 
properties of others; and to continue it from age to age in 
the line of natural generation, without regard to the virtues 
and vices of their successors, being manifestly contrary to 



204 

true universal love, and attended with great evils, it requires 
the clearest evidence to convince us,'lhat Moses intended 
that the strangers should, as such, be slaves to the Jews. 

He directed them to buy strangers and sojourners. It 
appears that there were strangers in Israel who were free 
men; and considering with what tenderness and humanity 
the Jews, by their law, were obliged to use their servants, 
and what care was to be taken to instruct them in the true 
religion, it is not unlikely that some strangers, in poverty 
and distress, were willing to enter into hoods to serve the 
Jews as long as they lived; and in such case the Jews, by 
their law, had a right to that service. 

When the awl was bored through the ear of the Hebrew 
servant, the text saith, '' He shall serve for ever;" yet we 
do not suppose that by the words " for ever," it was in- 
tended that none of his posterity should afterwards be free. 
When it is said in regard to the strangers which they 
bought, '' They shall be your possession," it may be well 
understood to mean only the persons so purchased; all pre- 
ceding relates to buying them; and what follows, to the 
continuance of their service, " Ye shall take them as an in- 
heritance for your children after you; they shall be your 
bondmen for ever." 

Moses directing Aaron and his sons to wash their hands 
and feet, when they went into the tabernacle of the con- 
gregation, saith, " It it shall be a statute fT)rever to them, 
even to him and to his seed throughout their generations." 
Exodus, XXX. 21. And to express the continuance of the 
law, it was his common language, '' It shall be a statute 
for ever throughout your generations." So that had he 
intended the j)osterity of the strangers so purchased to 
continue in slavery to the Jews, it is likely that he would 
have used some terms clearly to express it. The Jews 
undoubtedly had slaves, whom they kept as such from one 
age to another; but that this was agreeable to the genuine 
designof their inspired law-giver, is far from being a clear 
case. 

Making constructions of the law contrary to its true 
meaning, was common among that people. Samuel's sons 
took bribes, and perverted judgment — Isaiah complained 



205 

ihat they justified the wicked for reward — Zephaniah, con- 
temporary with Jeremiah, on account of the injustice of 
the civil magistrates, declared that those judges were even- 
ing wolves; and that the priests did violence to the law. 

Jeremiah acquaints us, that the priests cried peace, 
peace! when there was no peace; by which means the 
people grew bold in their wickedness; and having com- 
mitted abominations, were not ashamed; but through wrong 
constructions of the law, they justified themselves, and 
boastingly said, "We are wise; and the law of the Lord 
k with us." These corruptions continued till the days of 
our Saviour, wlio told tlie Pharisees, " Thus have ye made 
the commandment of God of none effect by your tradi- 
tion," Mark xv. 6. 

Thus it appears that in many ways they corrupted the 
law of Moses; nor is it unlikely that among others the op- 
pressing of the strangers was one; this was a heavy charge 
against the Jews, and was very often strongly represented 
by the Lord's faithful prophets. That the liberty of man 
was, by the inspired law-giver, esteemed precious, appears 
in this; that such as unjustly deprived men of it, were to 
be punished in like manner as if they had murdered them. 
*^ And he that stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be 
found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death." Ex- 
odus xxi. 16. This part of the law was so considerable, 
that Paul the learned Jew, giving a brief account of the 
uses of this law, adds this, '' It was made for men-steal- 
ers." 1 Tim. i. 10- 

The great men among that people were exceedingly op- 
pressive: and it is likely, exerted their whole strength and 
influence to have the law construed to suit their turns. 
The honest servants of the Lord had heavy work with 
them in regard to their oppression. They were fully re- 
solved to have slaves, even of their own brethren, notwith- 
standing the promises and threatenings of the Lord, by the 
prophet, and their solemn covenants to set them free, con- 
firmed by the imprecation of passing between the parts of 
a calf cut in twain; intimating by that ceremony, that oh 
breach of the covenant, it were just for their bodies to be 
so cut in pieces. Yet after all they held fast to their old 

18 



206 

customs, and called home the servants whom they had set 
free— Jei. x>iv. 15. 16. 17. 18. 

Soon after tfis tijeir city was taken and burnt, the king's 
sons and the princes were ilain, and the king with the thief 
men of his kingdom, carried captive to Babylon. Ezekiel, 
proj)l)esying the return ol" that people to their own land, 
directs, '' Ye shall divide the land by lot, for an inheritance 
unto you, ;md to the strargeis that sojourn among you; in 
what irihe the stranger snjoiirnelh, there shall he give him 
his inheritance, saiih the Lord God." Nor is this par- 
ticular direction, and the authority with which it is enforc- 
ed, without a tacit implicaion, that their ancestors had err- 
ed in their conduct tovvarc's the stranger. 

Some who keep slaves, have doubted the equity of the 
practice; but as they knew men, noted for their piety, who 
were in it, this they say, has made their minds easy. If 
we keep slaves from no other motive than a real sense of 
duty, and true charity governs us in all our proceedings 
towards them, we are so far safe; but if another spirit, 
vvhicli inclines our minds to the Wa}s of this world, prevail 
upon us, and we are concerned for our own outward gain 
more than for their real happiness, it will avail us nothing 
that some good men have had the care and management of 
negroes. 

Since mankind spread upon the earth, many have been 
the revolutions cutending the vaiious familres, and their cus- 
toms and ways of life greatly differ. This diversity of 
manners operates not in favor of any, so far as to justify 
them to do violence to innocent men, or to bring them from 
their own to another way of life. The mind when moved 
by a j)rinciple of true love, may feel a warmth of gratitude 
to the universal Father, and a lively sympathy with those 
nations, w'here Divine Light has been less manifest; and this 
desire for their real good may beget a willingness to under- 
go hardships for their sakes, that the true knowledge of 
God may bespread among them : but to take people from 
their own land, with views of profit to ourselves, by means 
inconsistent with pure justice, is foreign to that principle 
which seeks the happiness of the whole creation. Forced 
subjection of innocent persons of full age, is inconsistent 



207 

Will) right reason; on one side, the human mind is not nat- 
urally fortified with that firmness in wisdom and goodness, 
which are necessary to an independent ruler ; on the other 
side, to be subject to the uncontrollable will of man, liable 
to err, is most painful and afflicting to a conscientious 
creature. 

It is our happiness faithfully to serve the Divine Being 
who made us. His perfection makes our service reason- 
able. Men who undertake to govern others, may intend 
to govern reasonably, and to make their subjects more 
happy than they would otherwise be; but, as absolute com- 
mand belongs only to Him who is perfect, when frail men, 
in their own wills, assume such command, it hath a di.ect 
tendency to vitiate their minds, and make them more un- 
fit for government. 

Placing on men the ignominious title SLAVE, dress- 
ing them in uncomely garments, keeping them to servile 
and dirty labor, tends gradually to fix a notion in the mind, 
that they are a sort of people below us by nature. If a 
person who in our esteem is mean and contemptible, should 
use language or behavior towards us v^'hich is unseeuily or 
disrespectful, it excites wrath more powerfully than the like 
conduct in one, w^hom we account our equal or superior; 
and when this happens to be the case, it disqualifies for 
candid judgment; for it is unfit for a person to sit as judge 
in a case in which his own personal resentments are stirred 
up. As members of society in a well-framed government, 
we are mutually dependent. Pj-esent interest incites to 
duty, and makes each man attentive to the convenience of 
others; but he whose will is a law to others, and who can en- 
force obedience by punishment; he whose wants are sup- 
plied without feelling any obligation to make equal returns 
to his benefactor; is in danger of growing hard, and inat 
tentive to their convenience who labor for his support; his 
irregular appetites find an open field for motion, and he 
loses that disposition in which alone men are fit to govern. 

The English government hath been commended by can- 
did foreigners for the disuse of racks and tortures, so much 
practiced in some states: but this multiplying of slaves now 
leads to it; for when people exact hard labor of others, 



208 

without a suitable reward, and are resolved to continue in 
that way, severity to such as oppose them becomes the 
consequence; and several negro criminals, among the Eng- 
lish in America, have been executed in a lingering, painful 
way, very terrifying to others. 

It is a happy case to set out right, and to persevere in 
the same way. A wrong beginning leads into many diffi- 
culties. To support one evil, another is committed; two 
produce more; and the further men proceed in this way, 
the greater are their dangers, doubts, and fears, and the 
more painful and perplexing are their circumstances; so 
that such as are true friends to the real and lasting interests 
of our country, and who candidly consider the tendency of 
things, cannot but feel some concern on this account. 

There is that superiority in men over the brute crea- 
tures, and some of them are so manifestly dependent on 
men for a living, that for them to serve us in moderation, 
so far as relates to the light use of things, seems consonant 
to the design of our Creator. There is nothing in their 
frame, nothing relative to the propagation of their species, 
which argues the contrary; but in men there is. The 
frame of men's bodies and the disposition of their minds 
are different. Some who are tough and strong, and their 
minds active, choose ways of life requiring much labor to 
support them; others are soon weary; and though use 
makes labor more tolerable, yet some are less capable of 
toil than others, and their minds are less sprightly. These 
latter laboring for their subsistence, commonly choose a 
life easy to support, being content with a little. When 
they are wenry they may rest, take the most advantageous 
part of the day for labor; and in all cases so proportion 
one thing to another, that their bodies be not oppressed. 

Now, while each is at liberty, the latter may be as hap- 
p}*^, and livcj as comfortably as the former; but when men 
of the first sort have the latter under absolute command, 
and not considering the difference in strength and firn)ness, 
do sometimes lay on them burdens grievous to be borne, 
by degrees grow rigorous, and aspiring to greatness, in- 
crease oppression, the true order of kind Providence is 
subverted. 



509 

There are weaknesses sometimes attending us, which 
make little or no alteration in our countenances, nor 
much lessen our appetite for food, and yet so affect us, as 
to make labor very uneasy. In such cases, masters intent 
on putting forward business, and jealous of the sincerity of 
their slaves, may disbelieve what they say, and grievously 
afflict them. Action is necessary for all men, and our ex- 
hausting frame requires a support, which is the fiuit of ac- 
tion. The earth must be labored to keep us alive: labor 
is a proper part of our life; to make one support the other 
in some useful exertions, seems agreeable to the design of 
our Creator. Motion, rightly managed, tends to our satis- 
faction, health, and support. 

Those who quit all useful business, and live wholly oQ 
the labor of others, have their exei'cise to seek; some such 
use less than their health requires; others choose that which, 
by the circumstances attending it, proves utterly revers^e to 
true happiness. Thus while some are divers ways distress- 
ed for want of an open channel of useful action, those who 
support them sigh, and are exhausted in a stream too 
powerful for nature, spending their days with too little 
cessation from labor. Seed sown with the tears of a con- 
fined, oppressed people, corn cut down by an over-borne, 
discontented reaper, makes bread less sweet to the taste of 
an honest man, than that which is the produce, or just re- 
ward of tliat voluntary action which is one proper part of 
the business of human creatures. 

Again the weak state of the human species, in bearing 
and bringing forth their young, and the helpless condition 
of their offspring beyond that of other creatures, clearly 
show that Perfect Goodness designs a tender care and re- 
gard should be exercised towards them; and that no im- 
perfect, arbitrary power should prevent the cordial effects 
of ihat sympathy, which exists in the minds of well-met 
pairs towards each other, and their offspring. In our spe- 
cies the mutual ties of affection are more rational and 
durable tliao in others below us; the care and labor of 
raising our offspring is much greater. The satisfaction 
arising to us in their innocent company, and in their ad- 
vances from one rational Improvement to another is great, 

18* 



210 

when two are thus joined, and their affections are sincere. 
It however happens among slaves, that they are often situ- 
ated in different places; and their seeing each other de- 
pends on the will of men, liable to human passions and to 
a bias in judgment; who with views of self-interest may 
keep them apart more than is right. Being absent from 
each other, and often with other company, there is a dan- 
ger of their affections being alienated, jealousies arising, 
the happiness otherwise resulting from their offspring frus- 
trated, and the comforts of marriage destroyed. These 
things being closely considered as happening to a near 
friend, will appear to be hard and painful. 

He who reverently observes the goodness manifested by 
our gracious Creator towards the various species of beings 
fn this world, will perceive, that our frame and constitution 
clearly proves that innocent men, capable to manage for 
themselves, are not intended to be slaves. A person lately 
travelling among the negroes near Senegal, makes this re- 
mark; '' Which way soever I turned my eyes on this 
pleasant spot, I beheld a perfect image of pure nature; an 
agreeable sohtude, bounded on every side by charming 
landscapes, tiie rural situation of cottages in the midst of 
trees.. The ease and indolence of the negroes reclined 
under the shade of their spreading foliage; ihe simplicity 
of their dress and manners; the whole revived in my mind 
the idea of our first parents, and I seemed to contemplate 
the world in its primitive state." M. Adanson, page 55. 
Some negroes in these parts, who have had a suitable 
education, have manifested a brightness of understanding 
equal to many of us. A remark of this kind we find in 
Bosman, page 328. ''^The negroes of Fida, saith he, are 
so accurately quick in their merchandize accounts, that they 
easily reckon as justly and quickly in their heads only, as 
we do with the as&istance of pen and ink, though the sum 
amounts to several thousands." 

Through the force of long custom, it appears needful 
to speak in relation to color. Suppose a white child, born 
of parents of the meanest sort, who died and left him an 
infant, should fall into the hands of a person who should 
endeavor to keep him a slave; some men would account 



^11 

tlie man unjust in doing so, who thenaselves appear easy 
while many black people of honest lives and good abilities, 
are enslaved in a more shocking manner than the case here 
supposed. This is owing chiefly to the idea of slavery 
being connected with the black color, and liberty wi[h the 
white; and when false ideas are insinuated into our minds, 
it is with difficulty they get fairly disentangled. 

A traveller, missing his way in cloudy weather, makes 
many turns while he is lost, and forms in his mind the bear- 
ing and situation of places; and though these ideas are 
wrong, they fix as firmly as if they were right. Finding 
how things are, we see our mistake; yet the force of reason, 
with repeated observations on places and things, does not 
soon remove these false notions which are fastened upon 
us; it may seem in the imagination that the annual course 
of the sun is altered; and though by recollection we are 
assured it is not, yet the idea does not suddenly leave us. 

Selfishness clouds the understanding; and when selfish 
men, for a long time, proceed on their way without oppo- 
sition, the deceivableness of unrighteousness gets so rooted 
in their minds, that a candid examination of things relating 
to self-interest is prevented; in this circumstance, some 
who would not enslave a person whose color is like their 
own, seem willing to make slaves of those of a different 
color, though their understanding and morals be equal to 
the generality of men of their own color. The color of 
a man avails nothing in matters of right and equity. Con- 
sider color in relation to treaties, by which disputes be- 
tween nations are sometimes settled. And should the 
Father of us all so dispose things, that treaties with black 
men should sometimes be necessary, how then would it 
appear for the princes and ambassadors, to insist on the 
prerogative of the wliite color? 

How is it that men, who believe in a righteous omnipo- 
tent Being, to whom all nations stand equally related, and 
are equally accountable, remain so easy about ensla- 
ving their fellow creatures? Is it not that the idea of 
negro and slave is so interwoven in the mind, that they do 
not discuss this matter with that candor and freedom of 
thought which the case justly calls for.-^ To come at a 



212 

l^ight feeling of their condition, requires htiinble, serious 
thinking; for in their present situation, they have but little 
to engage our natural affection in their favor. Had we a 
son or a daughter involved in a case similar to what many 
of them are, it would alarm us, and make us feel their 
condition without seeking for it. The adversity of an in- 
timate friend will incite our compassion, while others equal- 
ly good, in the like trouble, will but little affect us. And 
if a man in worldly honor whom we consider as our supe- 
rior, treats us with kindness and generosity, it begets a re- 
turn of gratitude and friendship towards hiu). We rnay 
receive as great benefi's fiom men a degree lower than 
ourselves, in the common way of reckoning, and feel our- 
selves less engaged in favor of them. Such is our condi- 
tion by nature; and these things being narrowly watched 
and examined, will be found to centre in self-love. 

The blacks seen] far from being our kinsfolks; and did 
we find an agreeable disposition and sound understanding in 
some of hem, which appeared as a good foundation lor a 
true friendship between us, the disgrace arising fiom an open 
friendship with a person of so vile a stock, in the common 
esteem, would naturally tend to hinder it. They have 
neither honors, riches, outward magnificence, nor power; 
their dress being coarse, and often ragged; their employ- 
ment drudgery, and much in the dirt-, they have little or no- 
thing at command, but must wail upon and work for others, 
to obtain the necessaries of life; so that in their present sit- 
uation, there is not much to engage the friendship or move 
the affection of selfish men; but it is a thing familiar to 
such as live in the spirit of true charity, to sympathize with 
the afflicted in the lowest stations of life. 

Such is the kindness of our Creator, that people apply- 
ing their minds to sound wisdom, my, in general, with mo- 
derate exercise, live comfortably when no misapplied pow- 
er hinders it ; which we, in these parts, have cause grate- 
fully to acknowledge. But when men leave the true use of 
things, their lives are less calm, and they have less of real 
happiness. Many are desirous of purchasing and keep- 
ing slaves, that they may live in some measure conforma- 
bly to the luxurious customs of the times; for when we in 



213 

the least degree depart from that use of the creatures, for 
which the Creator of all things intended them, then luxury- 
begins. If we consider this way of life seriously, we shall 
see there is nothing in it sufficient to induce a wise man to 
choose it, before a plain, simple way of living. If we ex- 
amine stately buildings and equipage, delicious food, super- 
fine clothes, silks, and linens ; if we consider the splendor 
of choice metal fastened upon raiment, and the most showy 
inventions of men; it will yet appear that the humble-mind- 
ed man, who is contented with the true use of houses, food, 
and garments, and cheerfully exercises himself agreeably 
to his station in civil society to earn them, acts more rea- 
sonably, and discovers more soundness of understanding in 
his conduct, than such as lay heavy burdens on others, to 
support themselves in a luxurious way of living. 

In true gospel simplicity, free from all abuse of things, a 
spirit which breathes peace and good will is cherished; but 
when we aspire after imaginary grandeur, and apply to 
selfish means to attain our end, this desire in its origin is 
the same with that of the Picts, in cutting figures on their 
bodies; but the evil consequences attending our proceed- 
ings are the greatest. 

A covetous mind, which seeks opportunity to^exalt itself, 
is a great enemy to true harmony in a country; envy and 
grudging usually accompany this disposition, and it tends to 
stir up its likeness in others. And when this disposition 
ariseth so high, as to embolden us to look upon honest in- 
dustrious men as our own property during life, and to keep 
them to hard labor, to support us in those customs which 
have not their foundation in right reason, or to use any 
means of oppression; a haughty spirit is cherished on one 
side, and the desire of revenge frequently on the oiher, 
until the inhabitants of the land are ripe for great commo- 
tion and trouble; and thus luxury and oppression have the 
seeds of war and desolation in them. 

In Randal's Geography, printed 1744, w^e are informed, 
'' That in a time of full peace, nothing is more common 
than for the negroes of one nation to steal those of anoth- 
er, and sellihem to the Europeans. It is thought that the 
English transmit annually near fifty thousand of these un- 



214 

happy creatures; and the oilier European nations together 
about two hundred thousand more." 

It is through the goodness of God that a refornla- 
tion from gross idolatry and barbarity hath been partly ef* 
fecied; if we consider our conditions as Christians, and the 
benefits we enjoy, and compare them with the condition of 
the negroes, and consider that our nation trading with them 
for their country produce, have had an opportunity of im- 
parting useful instructions to them, and remember that but 
little pains have been taken therein, it must look like an in- 
difference in us. But when we reflect on a custom the 
most shocking of any among them, and remember that with 
a view to outward gain, we have joined as parties in it; 
that our concurrence with them in their barbarous proceed- 
ings, has tended to harden them in cruelty, and has been 
the means of increasing calamities in their country; we 
must own that herein we have acted contrary to those wor- 
thies, whose lives and substance were spent in propagating 
truth and righteousness among the heathen. 

Were many wlio are parties in this trade, by keeping 
slaves with views of self-interest, to go as soldiers in one 
of these inland expeditions to catch slaves, they must ne- 
cessarily grow dissatisfied with such employment, or cease 
to profess their religious principles. And though the first 
and most striking part of the scene is done at a great dis- 
tance, and by other hands, yet every one who is acquaint- 
ed with the circumstances, and notwithstanding joins in it 
for the sake of gain only, must, in the nature of things, be 
guilty with the others. 

Should we consider ourselves present as spectators, 
when cruel negroes privately catch innocent children, who 
are employed in the fields, hear their lamentable cries, 
under the most terrifying apprehensions; or should we look 
upon it as happening in our own families, having our chil- 
dren carried off by savages, we must needs own that such 
proceedings are contrary to the nature of Christianity; — 
should we meditate on the wars which are greatly increased 
by this trade, and on that affliction which many thousands 
live in, through apprehensions of being taken or slain; on 
the terror and amazement of the villagers when surrouiujed 



215 

by these troops of enterprizers; on the great pain and mis- 
ery of dying men, who get wounded in those skirmishes; 
we should necessarily see, that is is impossible to be par- 
ties in such trade on the motives of gain, and retain our 
innocence. 

Should we consider the case of multitudes of those 
people, who in a fruitful soil and hot climate, with liitle la- 
bor, raise grain, roots and pulse, to eai; spin and weave 
cotton, and fasten together the large feathers of fowls, to 
cover their nakedness; many of whom, in much simplicity, 
live inoffensively in their cottages, and take great comfort 
in raising up children; should we contemplate their cir- 
cumstances when suddenly attacked, and labor to under- 
stand their inexpressible anguish of soul who survive the 
conflict: should we think on inofiensive women v^ho fled 
at the alarm, and at their return saw that village, in which 
they and their acquaintance were raised up, and had pleas- 
antly spent their youthful days, now lying in gloomy deso- 
lation; some shocked at finding the mangled bodies of their 
near friends among the slain; others bemoaning the absence 
of a brother, a sister, a child, or a whole family of chil- 
dren, who by cruel men were bound and carried to mar- 
ket, to be sold without the least hope? of seeing them 
again: should we in addition consider the afflicted condition 
of these poor captives, who are separated from family con- 
nexions, and all the comforts arising from friendship and 
acquaintance, carried among a people of a strange language, 
to be parted fiom their fellow-captives, put to labor in a 
manner more servile and wearisome than they were used to, 
with many sorrowful circumstances attending their slavery: 
we must necessarily conclude that it belongs not to the fol- 
lowers of Christ to be parties in such a trade, on the mo- 
tives of outward gain. 

Though there were wars and desolation among the ne- 
groes before the Europeans began to trade for slaves, yet 
now t! e calamities are greatly increased, so many tliou- 
sands being annually imported; and we, by purchasing 
them are become parties with them, and accessary to that 
increase. In this case we are not joining against an enemy 
who is fomenting discords on our continent, and using all 



216 

possible means to make slaves of us and of our children; 
but against a people who have not injured us. It would 
seem rigorous to candid men, if those who were spoiled 
and wronged should at length make slaves of their oppres- 
sors, and continue slavery to their posterity; but to act 
that part towards a people, when neither they nor their 
fathers have injured us, haih something in it extraordinary, 
and requires our serious attention. 

Our children breaking a bone, getting so bruised that a 
leg or an arm must be taken off; lost for a few hours, so 
that we despair of their being found again; a friend hurt, 
so that he dieth in a day or two; these things move us with 
grief. Did we attend to those scenes in Africa, as if they 
were transacted in our presence; and sympathize with the 
negroes in all their afflictions and miseries, as we do with 
our children or friends; we should be more careful to do 
nothing in any degree to help forward a trade productive of 
so many and so great calamities. Great distance is nothing 
in our favor. Willingly to join with unrighteousness to the 
injury of men who live some thousand miles off, is the same 
in substance as joining with it to the injury of our neigh- 
bors. 

In the eye of pure justice, actions are regarded accord- 
ing to the spirit and disposition from which they arise. 
Some evils are accounted scandalous, and the desire of 
reputation may keep selfish men from appearing openly in 
them; but he who is shy on that account, and yet by in- 
direct means promotes that evil, and shares in the profit of 
it, cannot be innocent. He who, with a view to self-in- 
terest, buys a slave made so by violence, and only on the 
strength of such purchase holds him a slave, thereby joins 
hands with those who committed that violence, and in the 
nature of things becomes chargeable with the guilt. 

Suppose a man wants a slave, and being in Guinea, goes 
and hides himself by the path where boys pass from one 
little town to another, and there catches one on the day he 
expects to sail; and taking him on board, brings him home, 
without any aggravating circumstances: suppose another 
buys a man, taken by them that live by plunder and the 
slave-trade; who often steal them privately; and often shed 



217 

much blood in getting them. He who buys the slaves thus 
taken, pays those men for their wickedness, and makes 
himself party with them. Whatever nicety of distinction 
there may be between going in person on expeditions to 
catch slaves, and buying those with a view to self-interest 
which others have taken; it is clear and plain to an upright 
mind, that such distinction is in words not in substance; for 
the parties are concerned in the same work, and have a ne- 
cessary connexion with, and dependence on each other. 
Were there none to purchase slaves, they ! Who Jive by 
stealing and selling them, would of consequence soon cease 
to do so. 

Some would buy a negro brought from Guinea, and 
keep him a slave, who yet would scruple to take arms and 
join with men employed in taking slaves. Others have 
civil negroes, who were born in our country, capable and 
likely to manage well for themselves; whom they keep as 
slaves, without ever trying them with freedom, and take 
the profit of their labor as a part of their estates, and yet 
disapprove bringing them from their own country. If those 
negroes had com.e here as merchants, with their ivory and 
gold-dust, in order to trade with us, and some powerful 
person had taken their effects to himself, and then put them 
to hard labor, and ever after considered them as slaves, 
the action would be looked upon as unrighteous. 

If those negro merchants had children after they came 
among us, whose endowments and conduct were like other 
people's in common, and on their attaining to mature age, 
and requesting to have their liberty, should be told they were 
born in slavery, and were lawful slaves, and therefore their 
request should be denied; such conduct towards them 
would be looked upon as unfair and oppressive. 

In the present case, relating to home born negroes whos^ 
understandings and behavior are as good as is common 
among other people, if we have any claim to them as 
slaves, that claim is grounded on their being children or 
offspring of slaves, who in general were made such through 
means as unrighteous, and attended with more terrible cir- 
cumstances than the case last supposed; so that when we 
trace our claim to the bottom, we have no more equitable 

19 



218 

right to the service of these home-born negroes, having 
paid for their education, and given reasonable security to 
those who owned them, in case of their becoming charge- 
able, than we should have if they were the clilldren of 
honest merchants, who came from Guinea in an English 
vessel 10 trade with us. If we claim any right to ihem as 
the children of slaves, we build on the foundation laid by 
those who enslaved their ancestors; so tli.it of necessity 
we must either justify the trade, or relinquish our right to 
them, as being the children of slaves. 

Why should it seem right to honest men to make gain 
by these people more than by others? Others enjoy iree- 
dom, and receive wages equal to their work, at or near the 
time when they have discharged the equitable obligations 
they are under to those who educated them. The negroes 
have made no contract to serve; have been no more ex- 
pensive in bringing up them others, and u;any of them ap- 
pear as likely to make a right use of freedom as other 
people; how then can an honest man withhold from them 
that liberty, which is the free gift of the ^lost High to 
his rational creatures? The upright in heart cannot suc- 
ceed the wicked in their wickedness, nor is it consonant 
to the life they live, to hold fast an advantage unjustly 
gained. 

The negroes who live by plunder and the slave-trade, 
steal poor innocent children, invade their neighbors' territo- 
ries, and spill much blood to get the slaves; and can it be 
possible for an honest man to suppose, that with a view to 
self-interest, we may continue the oflspring of these unhappy 
sufferers in slavery, merely because they are the children 
of slaves, and not be partakers of this guilt? It is grant- 
ed by many, that the means used to get the negroes are 
unrighteous, and that buying them, when brought here, is 
wrong; yet, since setting them free is attended with some 
difficulty, they will not do it; but seem to be of the opinion, 
that to keep them servants without any other wages than 
food and raiment, is the best way to manage them that 
they know of; and hoping that their children after them 
will not be cruel to the negroes, conclude to leave them as 
slaves to their children. 



219 

• 

While present outward interest is the chief object of 
our attention, we feel many objections in our minds against 
renouncing our claim to the children of slaves: being pre- 
possessed with wrong opinions, prevents our seeing things 
clearly, which by uninterested persons are easily perceived. 

Suppose a person seventy years past, in low circumstan- 
ces, bought a negro man and woman, and that the children 
of such person are now wealthy, and have the children of 
such slaves. Admit that the first negro man and his wife 
did as much business as their master and mistress, 
and that the children of the slaves have done some more 
than their young masters. Suppose that on the whole, 
the expense of living has been less on the negroes' side 
than on the other (all which are no improbable suppositions) 
it follows, that in equity these negroes have a right to a 
part of this increase: and should some difficulties arise on 
their being set free, there is reason for us patiently to labor 
through them. 

As the conduct of men varies in relation to civil society, 
so different treatment is justly due to them. Indiscreet 
men occasion trouble in the world; and it remains to be 
the care of such as seek the good of mankind, to admon- 
ish as they find occasion. The slothfulness of some of 
them, in providing for themselves and families, w^ould pro- 
bably require the notice of their neighbors; nor is it unlike- 
ly that some would with justice be made servants, and 
others punished for their crimes. Pure justice points out 
to each individual his due; but to deny a people the privi- 
lege of human creatures, on a prejudice that being free 
many of ihem would be troublesome to us, is to mix the 
condition of good and bad men together, and to treat the 
whole as the worst of them deserve. 

If w^e seriously consider that liberty is the right of in- 
nocent men; that the mighty God is a refuge for the op- 
pressed; that in reality we are indebted to slaves; that they 
being set free, are still liable to the penalties of our laws, 
and as liable to punishment for their crimes as other people; 
this may answ^er all our objections. To retain them in per- 
petual servitude without just cause for it, will produce ef- 
fects, in the end more grievous than setting them free 



520 

would do, when a real love to truth and equity was the mo- 
tive to it. Our authority over them stands originally in a 
purchase made from those who, in general, obtained them 
by unrighteousness. Whenever we have recourse to such 
authority, it tends more or less to obstruct the channels 
through which the perfect plant in us receives nourish- 
ment. 

There is a principle which is pure, placed in the human 
mind; which in different places and a^es hath had different 
names; it is however pure, and proceeds from God. It 
is deep and inward, confined to no forms of religion, nor 
excluded from any, when the heart stands in perfect sin- 
cerity. In whomsoever this takes root and grows, of what 
nation soever, they become brethren in the best sense of 
the expression. Using ourselves to take ways which ap- 
pear most easy to us, inconsistent with that purity which 
is without beginning, we set up a government of our own, 
and deny obedience to Him, whose service is true lib- 
erty. 

He that hath a servant, and knows him to be made so 
wrongfully, and treats him otherwise than a free man, in 
reaping the benefit of his labor, without paying him such 
wages as are reasonably due to freemen; such things though 
done in calmness, without any show of disorder, do yet 
deprave the mind with as great certainty, as prevailing cold 
congeals water. Such conduct will be very striking to the 
minds of children while young, and will leave less room for 
that which is good to work upon them. Conceiving ideas 
of things and modes of conduct, from the custom of their 
parents, their neighbors, and the people with whom they 
converse, the entrance into their hearts becomes, in a great 
measure, shut up against the gentle movings of uncreated 
purity. From one age to another, the gloom grows thick- 
er and darker, till error gets established by general opinion. 
Whoever remains under the melting influence of perfect 
goodness, finds a path unknown to many, and sees the ne- 
cessity to lean upon the arm of Divine strength, and dwell 
alone; or with a few in the right, committing their cause to 
Him, who is a refuge for his people in all their troubles. 

When, through the agreement of a muhitude, some chan- 



221 

nels of justice are stopped, and men may support their cha- 
racters as just men, by being just to a party, there is great 
danger of contracting an alliance with that spirit which 
stands in opposition to the God of love, and spreads dis- 
cord, trouble, and vexation, among such as give up to the 
influence of it. 

Negroes are our fellow-creatures, and their present con- 
dition among us requires our serious consideration. We 
know not the time when those scales, in which mountains 
are weighed, may turn. The Parent of mankind is gra- 
cious: his care is over his smallest creatures; and a multi- 
tude of men escape not his notice. And though many of 
them are trodden down and dispised, yet He remembers 
them. He seeth their affliction, and looketh upon the 
spreading, increasing, exaltation of the oppressor. He 
turns the channels of power, humbles the most haughty 
people, and gives deliverance to the oppressed, at such 
periods as are consistent with his infinite justice and mer- 
cy. And whenever gain is preferred to equity, and wick- 
edness is publicly encouraged to that degree, that it takes 
root, and spreads wide among the inhabitants of a country, 
there is real cause for sorrow to all those whose love to 
mankind stands on a true principle, and who wisely consid- 
er the end of things. 



19* 



222 



CONSIDERATIONS 



ON 



PURE WISDOM, AND HUMAN POLICY 



ON 



LABOR ; 
ON SCHOOLS; 

AND ON 

THE RIGHT USE OF THE LORD'S OUTWARD GIFTS. 

[First printed in the year 1768.] 



INTRODUCTION. 

My mind bath often been affected with sorrow on ac- 
count of the prevailing of that spirit, which leads from an 
humble waiting on the inward teaching of Christ, to pursue 
ways of living attended with unnecessary labor, and which 
draws forth the minds of many people to seek after out- 
ward power, and to strive for riches, which frequently in- 
troduce oppression, and bring forth wars and grievious ca- 
lamities. 

It is with reverence that I acknowledge the mercies of 
our heavenly Father, who in infinite love did visit me 



223 

in my youth, and wrought a belief in me, that through 
true obedience, a state of inward purity may be known 
in this life, in which we may love mankind in the same love 
with which our Redeemer loveth us, and therein learn re- 
signation to endure hardships, for the good of others. 

" While the eye is single, the whole body is full of 
light;" but selfish desires, and an imaginary superiority, 
darken the mind; hence injustice frequently proceeds; and 
when this is the case, to convince the judgment is the most 
effectual remedy. 

When violent measures are pursued in opposing injustice, 
the passions and resentments of the injured frequently 
operate in the prosecution of their designs; and after con- 
flicts productive of very great calamities, the minds of 
contending parties often remain as little acquainted with 
the pure principle of Divine love, as they were before; 
but when people walk in that pure light in which all their 
deeds are wrought in God," John iii. 21, and under op- 
pression, persevere in the meek spirit, and abide firm in 
the cause of truth, without actively complying with oppres- 
sive demands, the Lord hath often manifested his power 
through them in opening the understanding of others, to 
the promoting of righteousness in the earth. 

A time I believe is corning, wherein this Divine work 
will so spread and prevail, that "Nation shall not lift up 
sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any 
more." Isaiah ii. 4. And as we, through the tender mer- 
cies of God, feel that this precious work is begun, 1 am 
concerned to encourage my brethren and sisters in a holy 
care and diligence, that each of us may so live under the 
sanctifying power of truth, as to be redeemed from all un- 
necessary cares; that our eye being single to Him, no cus- 
toms however prevalent, which are contrary to the wisdom 
from above, may hinder us from faithfully following His 
holy leadings, in whatsoever He may graciously appoint 
for us. 



CONSlDERATIOxNS, &c. 



" The wisdom thjt is from above, is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, 
and easy to be inlreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, 
and without hypocrisy." — James iii. 17. 



0)1 Fure Wisdom^ and Human Policy. 

To have our trust settled in the Lord, and not to seek 
after nor desire outward treasures, any further than his 
Holy Spirit leads us therein, is a happy state, as saith the 
prophet, " Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, 
and whose hope the Lord is." Jer, xvii. 7. 

Pure wisdom leads people into lowliness of mind, in 
which they learn resignation to the Divine will, and con- 
tentment in suffering for his cause, when they cannot keep 
a clear conscience without suffering. Li this pure wisdom 
the mind is attentive to the root and original spring of mo- 
tions and desires; and as we know " the Lord to be our ref- 
uge," and find no safety but in humbly walking before Him; 
we feel an holy engagement that every desire which leads 
therefrom may be brought to judgment. 

While we proceed in this precious way, and find ardent 
longings for a full deliverance from every thing which 
defiles, all prospects of gain, that are not consistent with 
the wisdom from above, are considered as snares; and an 
inward concern is felt that we may live under the cross, 
and faithfully attend to that Holy Spirit which is sufiicient 
to preserve us from them. When I have considered that 
saying of Christ, Matt. vi. 19, " Lay not up for yourselves 
treasures upon earth;" His omnipotence hath often occur- 



225 

red to my mind. While we believe that He is every 
where present with his people, and that perfect goodness, 
wisdom, and power, are united in Him, how comfortable 
is the consideration. 

Our wants may be great, but his power is greater. We 
may be oppressed and despised, but he is able to turn our 
patient sufferings into profit to ourselves, and to the ad- 
vancement of his work on earth. His people, who feel 
the power of his cross to crucify all that is selfish in them; 
who are engaged in outward concerns, from a conviction 
that it is their duty, and resign then^selves and their trea- 
sures to Him; feel that it is dangerous to give way to that 
which craves riches and greatness in this world. 

The heart, truly contrite, earnestly desires " to know 
Ghrist, and the fellowship of his sufferings," Phil. iii. 10, 
so far as the Lord, for gracious ends, may lead into them; 
and such feel that it is their interest to put their trust in 
God, and to seek no gain but that which He, by his Holy 
Spirit, leads into. On the contrary, they who do not rev- 
erently w^ait for this Divine teacher, and are not humbly 
concerned, according to their measure, " to fill up that 
which is behind of the afflictions of Christ," Col. i. 24, 
in patiently suffering for the promoting of righteousness in 
the earth; but have an eye towards the power of men, and 
the outward advantages of wealth, are often engaged in 
such trade and business as proceeds from the workings of 
that spirit, which is estranged from the self-denying life of 
an humble, contrite Christian. 

While I w^rite on this subject, I feel my mind tenderly 
affected towards those honestly disposed people, who have 
been brought up in employments attended with these diffi- 
culties. To such I may say, in the feeling of our heaven- 
ly Father's love, and number myself with them, O that our 
eyes may be single to the Lord! May we reverently wait 
on Him for strength, to lay aside all unnecessary expense 
of every kind, and to learn contentment in a plain simple 
life. May we in lowliness submit to the leadings of his 
spirit, and enter upon any outward employment which he 
may graciously point out to us; and then whatever difficul- 
ties arise, in consequence of our faithfulness, I trust they 



^26 

will work for our good. Small treasure for a resigned 
mind is sufficient. How happy it is to be content with 
little, to live in humility, and to feel that in us which 
breathes out this language, Abba! Father. If that called 
the wisdom of this world had no resemblance to true wis- 
dom, the name of wisdom, I suppose, would not have been 
given to it. 

As wasting outward substance to gratify vain desires, 
often involves men and their families in trouble, so slothful- 
ness and neglect frequently reduce them to want and dis- 
tress. To shun both these opposite vices is good in itself, 
and hath a resemblance to wisdom; but when ]")eople thus 
provident, have it principally in view to get riches, and 
power, and the friendship of this world, and do not humbly 
wait for the spirit of truth to lead them into purity; these 
through an anxious care to obtain the end desired, reach 
forth for gain in worldly wisdom, and in regard to their in- 
ward state, fall into divers temptations and snares. And 
though such may think of applying wealth to good purposes, 
and of using their power to prevent oppression, yet w^ealth 
and power are often applied otherwise; nor can we depart 
froin the leadings of our Holy Shepherd, without going 
into confusion. 

Great wealth is frequently attended with power, which 
nothing can qualify the mind to use rightly but Divine love; 
and as to the humility and uprightness of our children after 
us, how great is the uncertaitity ! If, in acquiring wealth, 
we take hold of the wisdom which is from beneath, and 
depart from the leadings of truth, and example our chil- 
dren herein, we have great cause to apprehend that wealth 
may be a snare to them; and prove an injury to others 
over whom their wealth may give them power. 

To be redeemed from that wisdom which is from beneath, 
and to walk in the light of the Lord, is a precious state; 
thus His people are brought to put their trust in Him; and 
in this humble confidence in His wisdom, goodness, and 
power, the righteous find a refuge in adversities superior to 
the greatest outward helps; and a comfort more certain 
than any worldly advantage can aftbrd. 



227 



On Labor. 

Having from my childhood been used to bodily labor 
for a living, I may express my experience therein. 

Moderate exercise affords an innocent pleasure, and pre- 
pares us to enjoy the sweetness of rest; but from extremes 
either way arise inconveniences. Moderate exercise opens 
the pores, gives the blood a lively circulation, and enables 
ns to judge rightly respecting that portion of labor which 
is the true medium. " The fowls of the air sow not, nor 
gather into barns, yet our heavenly Father feedeth them," 
Matt. vi. 26; and I believe that infinite goodness and power 
would not have allotted labor to us, had He not seen that 
labor was proper for us in this life. 

The original design, and true medium of labor, is a sub- 
ject that to me appears worthy of our serious consider 
ration. Idle men often neglect the duty they owe to their 
families, and become burdensome to themselves and others. 
As outward labor, directed by the Vv^isdom from above, 
tends to our health, and adds to our happiness in this life; 
so, on the contrary, entering upon it in a selfish spirit, and 
pursuing it too long, or too hard, has a contrary effect. 

I have observed that too much labor not only makes the 
understanding dull, but so disturbs the harmony of the 
body, that after ceasing from our toil, we have more to 
pass through before we can be so composed as to enjoy 
the sweetness of rest. From too much labor in the heat, 
immoderate sweats frequently proceed, which often I be- 
lieve open the way for disorders, and impair our constitu- 
tions. When we go beyond the true medium, and feel 
weariness approaching, but think business may suffer if we 
cease, spirituous liquors are frequently taken, with a view 
to support nature under these fatigues. 

I have found that too much labor in the summer, heats 
the blood; that taking strong drink to support the body un- 



228 

der such labor, increases that heat; and though a person 
may be so far temperate as not to manifest the least dis- 
order, yet the mind, in such circumstances, doth not retain 
that calmness and serenity in which we should endeavor to 
live, and is very much disqualified from successfully follow- 
ing Him who was " meek and low of heart." 

As laying out business beyond what is consistent with 
pure wisdom is an evil, so this evil frequently leads into 
more: loo much business leads to hurry. In the hurry 
and toil, too much strong drink is often used, and hereby 
many proceed to noise and wantonness; and some, 
though more considerate, do often suffer loss as to a true 
composedness of mind. I feel sincere desires in my heart, 
that no rent, or interest, may be laid so high as to be a 
snare to tenants; that no desire of gain may draw any too 
far in business; that no cares to support customs, which 
have not their foundation in pure wisdom, may have place 
in our minds; but that we may build on the sure foundation, 
and feel our holy Shepherd to lead us, who alone is able 
to preserve us from every thing that defiles. 

Having several times, in my travels, had opportunity 
to observe the labor and manner of life of great numbers 
of slaves, it appears to me that the true medium is lament- 
ably neglected by many who assign them their portion of 
labor. Without saying much at this time, concerning buy- 
ing and selling men for term of life, who have as just a 
right to liberty as we have, or about the great miseries, 
and effusion of blood, consequent on promoting the slave 
trade; and to speak as favorably as may be, with regard 
to continuing those in bondage who are among us, we can- 
not say there is no partiality in it. For, whatever tender- 
ness may be manifested by individuals in their life time, to- 
wards them, yet for people to be transmitted from a man 
to his posterity, in the helpless condition of slaves, appears 
inconsistent with the gospel spirit. From such proceed- 
ings it often follows, that persons in the decline of life, are 
deprived of monies equitably due to them, and committed 
to the care, and subjected to the absolute power of young 
inexperienced men, who know little about the weakness of 
old age, nor understand the language of dechning life. 



2^9 

When parents give estates to their children, and then 
<lepend on them for a maintenance, they sometimes meet 
with great inconveniences: but if the power of possession 
thus obtained, often reverses the obh'gations of gratitude 
and filial duty, and makes manifest that youth are often ig- 
norant of the language of old age, how hard is the case of 
■aged negroes; who, deprived of the wages equitably due 
to them, are left to young people who have been used to 
look upon them as iheir inferiors. 

For men to behold the fruits of their labor withheld 
from them, and possessed by others, and in old age when 
they feel pains, and stiffness in their joints and limbs, weak- 
ness of appetite, and that a little labor is wearisome, and 
behold themselves in the neglected, uncomfortable condi- 
tion of slaves, oftentimes to the young and unsympathizing 
— when they are thtis treated, from one generation to an- 
other, and besides their own distresses, think on the slavery 
entailed on their posterity; what grievous thoughts must 
ihey have of the professed followers of Jesus! and how 
must their groans ascend to that Almighty Being, who 
"will be a refuge for the oppressed!" Psalm ix. 9. 



On Schools. 

*' Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not, for of 
such is the kingdom of God," — Mark. x. 14. 

To encourage children to do things with a view to get 
praise of inen, appears an obstruction to their being in-* 
wardly acquainted with the spirit of truth. For it is the 
work of the Holy Spirit to direct the mind to God; tha^ 
in all our proceeding we may have a single eye to Him; 
may give alms in secret; fast in secret; and labor to keep 
clear of that disposition reproved by our Saviour, ^' But 
all their works they do for to be seen of men." Matt, 
xxiii. 5. 

That Divine light which enlightens all men, does, I be- 
lieve, often shine in the minds of children very early; 
20 



230 

and humbly to wait for wisdom that our conduct to- 
wards them may tend to forward their acquaintance with it, 
and strengthen them in obedience thereto, appears to me to 
be a duty on us all. By cherishing in them the spirit of 
pride, and the love of praise, I believe they may some- 
times improve faster in learning, than they otherwise would; 
but to take measures to forward children in learning, which 
naturally tend to divert their minds from true humility, ap- 
pears to me to savor of the wisdom of this world. If 
tutors are not acquainted with sanctificaiion of spirit, nor 
experienced in an humble waiting for the leadings of truth, 
but follow the maxims of the wisdom of this world, such 
children as are under their tuition, appear to me to be in 
danger of imbibing thouglits and habits the reverse of that 
meekness and lowliness of heart, which is necessary for 
all the true followers of Christ. 

Children at an age fit for schools, are at a time of life 
which requires the patient attention of pious people; and 
if we commit them to the tuition of those, whose minds we 
believe are not rightly prepared to '^ train them up in the 
nurture and admonition of the Lord," we are in danger of 
not acting the part of faithful parents towards them. Our 
heavenly Father doth not require us to do evil, that good 
may come of it; and it is needful that we deeply examine 
ourselves, lest we get entangled in the wisdom of this world, 
and through wrong apprehensions, take such methods in 
education as may prove a great injury to the minds of our 
children. It is a lovely sight to behold innocent children; 
and when they are sent to schools where their tender minds 
are in imminent danger of being led astray by tutors, who 
do not live a self-denying life, or by the conversation of 
such children as do not live in innocence, it is a case much 
to be lamented. 

While a pious tutor hath the charge of no more children 
than he can take due care of, and keeps his authority in 
the truth, the good spirit in which he leads and governs, 
works on the minds of such as are not hardened; and his 
labors not only tend to bring them forward in outward 
learning, but to open their understandings with respect to 
the true Christian life; but when a person hath charge of 



231 

too many, and his thoughts and time are so much employ- 
ed in the outward affairs of his school, that he does not so 
weightily attend to the spirits and conduct of each individu- 
al, as to be enabled to administer rightly to all in due season; 
thTough such omission, he not only suffers as to the state of 
his own mind, but the minds of the children are in danger 
of suffering also. 

To watch the spirits of children, to nurture them in 
gospel love, and labor to help them against that which 
would mar the beauty of their minds, is a debt we owe 
them; and a faithful performance of our duty not only 
tends to their lasting benefit, and to our own peace, but 
also renders their company agreeable to us. Instruction 
thus administered, reaches the pure witness in the minds of 
such children as are not hardened, and begets love in them 
towards those who thus lead them on; but where too great 
a number are committed to one tutor, and he, through 
much cumber, omits a careful attention to the minds of his 
scholars, there is danger of disorders gradually increasing 
among them, until they grow too strong to be easily reme- 
died. A care hath lived on my mind, that more time 
might be employed by parents at home, and by tutors at 
school, in weightily attending to the spirit and inclinations 
of children, and that we may so lead, instruct, and govern 
them, in this tender part of life, that nothing may be omit- 
ted which is in our power, to help them on their way to 
become the children of our Father who is in heaven. 

Meditating on the situation of schools in our provin- 
ces, my mind hath at times been affected with sorrow; and 
under this exercise, it hath appeared to me, that if those 
who have large estates were faithful stewards, and laid 
no rent, nor interest, nor other demand, higher than 
is consistent with universal love; and if those in lower 
circumstances would under a moderate employ, shun un- 
necessary expense, even to the smallest article; and all 
unite in humbly seeking to the Lord, He w^ould graciously 
instruct, and strengthen us to relieve the youth from va- 
rious snares, in which many of them are entangled. 



232 



On the right use of the Lord's outward gifts. 

As our understandings are opened by the pure light, we 
experience, that through an inward approaching to God, 
the mind is strengthened in obedience; and that by gratify- 
ing those desires which are not of his begetting, these ap- 
proaches to Him are obstructed, and the deceivable spirit 
gains strength. 

These truths being as it were engraven on our hearts^ 
and our everlasting interest in Christ evidently concerned 
therein, we become fervently engaged that nothing may be 
nourished which tends to feed pride or self-love in us» 
Thus in pure obedience, we are not only instructed in our 
duty to (jod, but also in the affairs which necessarily relate 
to this life, and the Spirit of truth which guides into all 
truth, leavens the mind with a pious concern, that whatso- 
ever we do in word or deed, may be done in his name. 
Col. iii. 17. Hence such buildings, furniture, food, and 
raiment, as best answer our necessities, and are the least 
likely to feed that selfish spirit which is our enemy, are the 
most acceptable to us. 

In this state the mind is tender, and inwardly watchful, 
that the love of gain draw us not into any business, which 
may weaken our love to our heavenly Father, or bring un- 
necessary trouble to any of his creatures. And thus the 
way would gradually open to cease from that spirit which 
craves riches, and things fetched from afar, and which so 
mix with the customs of this world, and so intrude upon 
the true harmony of life, that the right medium of labor is 
very much departed from. If the minds of people were 
thus settled in a steady concern, not to hold nor possess 
any thing but what may be held consistent with the wisdom 
from above, they would consider what they possess as the 
gift of God; and would be inwardly exercised, that in all 
parts of their conduct they might act agreeably to the na- 
ture of the peaceable government of Christ. 

Such a life is supported with little; and in a state truly 
resigned to the Lord, the eye is single to see what outward 



233 

employ He leads into, as a means of our subsistence; and 
a lively care is maintained to hold to that without launch- 
ing further. There is harmony in the several parts of this 
Divine work in the hearts of people. He who leads them 
to cease from those gainful employments, which are car- 
ried on in that wisdom which is from beneath, delivers also 
from the desire after worldly greatness, and reconciles the 
mind to a life so plain, that a little doth suffice. Here the 
real comforts of life are not lessened. Moderate exercise, 
in the way of true wisdom, is pleasant both to mind and 
body. Food and raiment sufficient, though in the greatest 
simplicity, are accepted with contentment and gratitude. 

The mutual love subsisting between the faithful followers 
of Christ, is more pure than that friendship which is not 
seasoned with humility, how spacious soever the appear- 
ance. Where people depart from pure wisdom in one case, 
it is often an introduction to depart from it in many more; 
and thus a spirit which seeks for outward greatness, and 
leads into worldly wisdom to attain and support it, gets pos- 
session of the mind. 

In beholding the customary departure from the true me- 
dium of labor, and that unnecessary toil which many go 
through, in supporting outward greatness, and procuring 
delicacies: in beholding how the true calmness of life is 
changed into hurry, and that many, by eagerly pursuing 
outward treasure, are in great danger of withering, as to 
the inward state of the mind: in meditating on the works 
of this spirit, and on the desolations it makes among the 
professors of Christianity, I may thankfully acknowledge, 
that I often feel pure love beget longings in my heart, for 
the exaltation of the peaceable kingdom of Christ, and an 
engagement to labor according to the gift bestowed on me, 
for the promoting an humble, plain, temperate way of liv- 
ing: a life in which no unnecessary cares, or expenses, 
may encumber our minds, or lessen our ability to do good; 
in which no desires after riches, or greatness, may lead 
into hard dealings; no connexion with worldly-minded men, 
may abate our love to God, or weaken a true zeal for right- 
eousness: a life, wherein we may diligently labor for re« 
20* 



234 

signedness to do, and to suffer, whatever oiir heavenly Fa- 
ther may allot for us, in reconciling the world to Himself. 

When the prophet Isaiah had uttered his vision, and de- 
clared that a time was coming wherein swords should be 
beaten into plough-shares, and spears into pruning-hooks, 
and that nation should not lift up sword against nation, nor 
learn war any more; he immediately directs the minds of 
people to the Divine teacher, in this remarkable language, 
^' O house of Jacob, come ye, and let us walk in the light 
of the Lord." Isaiah ii. 5. It is necessary to wait for 
the direction of this light, in all temporal as well as spirit- 
ual concerns; for if in any case we enter lightly into tem- 
poral affairs, without feeling this Spirit of truth to open 
our way therein, and, through the Jove of this world, seek 
for gain by that business or traffic which " is not of the 
Father, but of the world," 1 John ii. 16, we fail in our 
testimony to the purity and peace of His government; and 
get into that which is for chastisement. 

This matter hath lain heavy on my mind, it being evi- 
dent that a life less humble, less simple and plain, than that 
which Christ leads his sheep into, does necessarily require 
a support which pure wisdom does not provide for; hence, 
there is no probability of our being ''a peculiar people," 
so zealous of good works, as to have no fellowship with 
works of darkness, while we have wants to supply, which 
have their foundation in custom, and do not come within 
the meaning of those expressions, " your heavenly Father 
knoweth that ye have need of all these things." Matt. vr. 
32. These things which he beholds necessary for his peo- 
ple, He fails not to give them, in his own way and time;, 
but, as his ways are above our ways, and his thoughts above 
our thoughts, so imaginary wants are different from the 
things which he knoweth that we have need of. 

As my meditations have been on these things, compas- 
sion hath filled my heart towards my fellow-creatures who 
are involved in customs, grounded on "the wisdom of this 
world, which is foolishness with God," 1 Cor. iii. 19. O 
that the youth may be so thoroughly experienced in an 
humble walking before the Lord, that they maybe his chil- 
dren; and know Him to be their safe unfailing refuge^ 



535 

through the various dangers of this uncertain state of being! 
If those whose minds are redeemed from the love of 
wealth, and who are content with a plain simple way of 
living, do nevertheless find that in conducting the affairs of 
a family, without giving countenance to unrighteous pro- 
ceedings, or having fellowship with works of darkness, the 
most diligent care is necessary: if customs distinguishable 
from universal righteousness, and opposite to the true self- 
denying life, are now prevalent, and so mixed with trade, ^ 
and with almost every employ, that it is only through hum- 
ble waiting on the inward guidance of Truth, that we may 
reasonably hope to walk safely, and support an uniform 
testimony to the peaceable government of Christ: if this be 
the case, how lamentably do they expose themselves to 
temptations, who give way to the love of riches, conform 
to expensive living, and strive for gain to support customs 
which our Holy Shepherd leads not into. 



CONSIDERATIOiNS 



ON THE 



TRUE HARMONY OF MANKIND, 



AND 



HOW IT IS TO BE MAINTAINED. 

[First Printed in 1770.] 



INTRODUCTION. 

As mankind from one parent are divided into many 
families, and as trading to sea is greatly increased within a 
few ages past; amidst this extended commerce, how ne- 
cessary it is that the professed followers of Christ keep 
sacred his holy name, and be employed about trade and 
traffic no farther than justice and equity evidently accom- 
pany; that we may give no just cause of offence to any, 
however distant, or unable to plead their own cause; and 
may continually keep in view the spreading among our fel- 
low-creatures, of the true and saving knowledge of God, 
and his son Jesus Christ; which, through his infinite love, 
some feel to be more precious than any other treasure. 



CONSIDERATIONS, &c. 



•' And the remnant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many people, as a 
dew from the Lord, as the showers upon the grass, that tarrieth not for 
man, nor waitelh for the sons of men." — Mi cam v. 7. 



CHAPTER I . 

On serving the Lord in our outioard em-ploymcnts. 

Under the humbling dispensations of the Father of Mer- 
cies, I feel an inward labor for the good of my fellow- 
creatures, and a concern that the Holy Spirit, which alone 
can restore mankind to a state of true harmony, may, with 
singleness of heart, be waited for and followed. I trust 
there are many under that visitation, w^hich, if faithfully at- 
tended to, will make them quick of understanding in the 
fear of the Lord, and qualify with firmness to be true pat- 
terns of the Christian life, who in living and walking may 
hold forth an invitation to others, to come out of the en- 
tanglements of the spirit of this world. 

1 feel a care for those who are in difficult circumstances 
with respect to supporting their families in a way answer- 
able to pure wisdom: that they may not be discouraged, 
but remember that in humbly obeying the leading of Christ, 
he owneth them as his friends: " Ye are my friends, if ye 
do whatsoever I command you;" and to be a friend to 
Christ, is to be united to Him who hath all power in Heaven 
and in Earth; and though a woman may forget her sucking 
child, yet will He not forget his faithful ones. 

The condition of many who dwell in cities hath often 
affected me with a brotherly sympathy, attended with a 
desire, that resignation may be labored for; and when the 
Holy Leader directeth to a country life, or to some change 



238 

of employ, He may be faithfully followed. For, under 
the refining hand of the Lord, I have seen that the inhabit- 
ants of some cities are greatly increased through some 
branches of business, which his Holy Spirit doth not lead 
into; and that being entangled in these things, tends to 
bring ? cloud over the minds of people who are convinced 
of the leadings of this holy Director, and to obstruct the 
coming of the kingdom of Christ on earth. 

Now, if we indulge a desire to imitate our neighbors in 
those things which harmonize not with the true Christian 
walking, these entanglements may cleave fast to us; and 
some, who in an awakening time, feel tender scruples with 
respect to their manner of life, may look on the example of 
others more noted in the church, who yet may not be re- 
fined from, every degree of dross. By looking on these 
examples, and desiring to support their families in a way 
pleasant to the natural mind, there may be danger of the 
worldly wisdom gaining strength in them, and of their de- 
parture from that pure feeling of truth which, if faithfully 
attended to, would teach contentment in the Divine will, 
even in a very low estate. 

One formerly, speaking on the profitableness of true hu- 
mility, saith, " He that troubles not himself with anxious 
thoughts for more than is necessary, lives little less than the 
life of angels; whilst, by a mind content wMth little, he 
imitates their want of nothing." — Cave's Primitive Chris- 
tianity, p. 31. 

" It is not enough, says Tertullian, that a christian be 
chaste and modest, but he must appear to be so: a virtue 
of which he should have so great a store, that it should 
flow from bis mind upon his habit, and break from the re- 
tirements of his conscience, into the superfices of his 
life."— Ibid. p. 43. 

" The garments we wear, says Clemens, ought to be 
mean and frugal. That is true simplicity of habit, which 
lakes away what is vain and superfluous; that the best and 
most solid garment, which is the farthest from curiosity." 
—Ibid. p. 49. 

Though the change from day to night is so gradual as 
scarcely to be perceived, yet when night is come, we be- 



239 

hold it very different from the day; and thus, as people be- 
come wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own 
sight, customs rise up from the spirit of this world, and 
spread by little and little, till a departure from the simplic- 
ity that there is in Christ, becomes as distinguishable as 
darkness from light, to such as are crucified to the world. 

Our holy Shepherd, to encourage his flock in firmness 
and perseverance, reminds them of his love for them: 
" As the Father harh loved me, so have I loved you; 
continue ye in my love;" and in another place He gra- 
ciously points out the danger of departing therefronj, by 
going into unsuitable employments. This he represents in 
the similitude of offence from that useful, active member, 
the hand; and to fix the instruction deeper, names the right 
hand; "If thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and 
cast it from thee." If thou feelest offence in thy employ- 
ment, humbly follow Him who leads into all truth, and 
who is a strong and faithful friend to those who are resigned 
to Him. 

Again, he points out those things w^hich appear pleasant 
to the natural mind, but which are not best for us, by the 
similitude of offence from the eye, " If thy right eye of- 
fend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee." To pluck 
out the eye, or to cut oft^ the hand, is attended with sharp 
pain; and how precious is the instruction which our re- 
deemer thus opens to us, that we may not faint under the 
most painful trials, but put our trust in Him, even in Him 
who sent an angel to feed Elijah in the wilderness, who fed 
a multitude with a few barley loaves, and who is now as 
attentive as ever to the wants of his people. 

The prophet Isaiah represents the unrighteous doings of 
the Israelites towards the poor, as the fruits of an effemi- 
nate life: " As for my people, children are their oppres- 
sors, and women rule over them. What mean ye that ye 
beat my people to pieces, and grind the faces of the poor.'' 
saith the Lord God." Then he mentions the haughtiness 
of the daughters of Zion, and enumerates many ornaments 
as instances of their vanity, to uphold which the poor were 
so hardly dealt with, that he sets forth their poverty, their 
leanness, and inability to help themselves, in the simihtude 



240 

of a man maimed by violence, or " beaten to pieces,*' and 
forced to endure the painful operation of having his face 
gradually worn away by grinding. 

I may here add that at times, when I have felt true love 
open my heart towards my fellow-creatures, and have been 
engaged in weighty conversation in the cause of righteous- 
ness, the instructions I have received under these exerci- 
ses, in regard to the true use of the outward gifts of God, 
have made deep and lasting impressions on my mind. I 
have beheld how the desire to provide wealth, and to up- 
hold a delicate life, hath grievously entangled many, and 
have been like snares to their offspring; and though some 
have been affected with a sense of their difficulties, and 
have appeared desirous at limes to be helped out of them; 
yet for want of abidingu nder the humbling power of truth they 
have continued in these entanglements; this expensive way 
of living in parents and children, hath called for a large 
supply; and in answering this call, '^ the faces of the 
poor" have been ground away, and made thin through hard 
dealing. 

There is balm; there is a physician! and O, what long- 
ings do I feel that we may embrace tlje means appointed 
for our healing; may know that removed which now minis- 
ters cause for the cries of many people to ascend to Hea- 
ven against their oppressors; and that we may see the true 
harmony restored! Behold " how good and how pleasant 
it is for brethren to dwell tosfether in unitv." The nature 
of this unity is thus opened by the apostle; '' If we walk 
in the light, as Christ is in the light, we shall have fellow- 
ship one with another, and the blood of Christ will cleanse 
us from all sin." The land may be polluted with innocent 
blood, which like the blood of Abel may cry to the Al- 
mighty; but they who " walk in the light, as Christ is in 
the light," know the "Lamb of God who taketh away 
sin." 

Walking is a phrase frequently used in Scripture to rep- 
resent our journey through life, and appears to comprehend 
the various affairs and transactions relating to our being in 
this world. Christ being the light, dwells always in the 
Jight; and if our walking be thus, and in every affair and 



241 

concern we faithfully follow this Divine Leader, he will 
preserve from giving just cause for any to quarrel with us. 
When this foundation is laid and mutually kept to, by fam- 
ilies conversant with each other, the way is open for those 
comforts in society, which our heavenly Father intends as 
a part of our happiness in this world; and then we may ex- 
perience the goodness and pleasantness of dwelling toge- 
ther in unity; hut when ways of living take place w-hich 
tend to oppression, and in the pursuit of wealth, people do 
that to others which they know would not be acceptable to 
themselves, either in exercising an absolute power over 
them, or otherwise laying on them unequitable burdens; 
they are afraid lest that measure should be meted to them, 
which they have measured to others; and therefore endea- 
vor to support by craft and cunning devices that which 
stands not on the firm foundation of righteousness: thus the 
harmony of society is broken, and hence commotions and 
wars do frequently arise in the world. 

'' Come out of Babylon, my people, that ye be not par- 
takers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues." 
— Rev. xviii. 4. This Babel or Babylon, was built in the 
spirit of self-exaltation: ''Let us build us a cisy and a 
tower, whose top may reach to heaven, and let us make us 
a name." — Gen. xi. 4. In departing from an humble 
trust in God, and following a selfish spirit, people have in- 
tentions to get the upper hand of their fellow-creatures, 
privately meditate on means to obtain their ends, and have 
a language in their hearts which is hard to understand. In 
Babel the language is confounded: this city is represented 
as a place of business, and those employed in it as mer- 
chants of the earth: " The merchants of the earth are 
waxed rich, through the abundance of her delicacies." 
Rev. xviii. 3. It is remarkable that the language in this 
call from the Father of Mercies, is, " Come out of Bab- 
ylon, my people!" Thus, his tender mercies are towards 
us in any imperfect state; and, as we faithfully attend to the 
call, the path of righteousness is more and more opened : 
cravings which have not their foundation in pure wisdom, 
more and more cease; and in an inward purity of heart, 
we experience a restoration of that which was lost at Ba- 

21 



24^ 

bel, represented by the inspired prophet in the " returning 
of a pure language," Zeph. iii. 9. 

Happy for those who humbly attend to the call, " Come 
out of Babylon, my people!" For though in going forth 
we may meet with trials ^ which for a time may be painful, 
yet as we bow in true humihty, and continue in it, an evi- 
dence is felt that God only is wise; and that in weaning us 
fronj all that is selfish, He prepares the way to a quiet hab- 
itation, in which all our desires are bounded by his wisdom. 
An exercise of spirit attends me, that we who are convinc- 
ed of the pure leadings of truth, may bow in the deepest 
reverence, and so watchfully regard this Leader, that many 
who are grievously entangled in a wilderness of vain cus- 
toms, may look upon us and be instructed. And O tliat 
such as have plenty of this world's goods, may be failhful 
in that with which they are entrusted, and example others 
in the true Christian walking! 

Our blessed Saviour, speaking on worldly greatness, 
compares himself to one waiting on a company at dinner: 
"•' Whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that 
serveth? Is not he tl)at sitteth at meat? but I am amongst 
you as he that serveth." Luke xxii. 27. Thus in a 
world greatly disordered, where men aspiring to outward 
greatness were wont to oppress others to support their de- 
signs, he who was of the highest descent, being the Son 
of God, and greater than any among the greatest families 
of men, by his example and doctrines foreclosed his fol- 
lowers from claiming any show of outward greatness, and 
from any supposed superiority either in themselves, or de- 
rived from their ancestors. 

He who was greater than earthly princes, was not only 
meek and low of heart; but his outward appearance was 
plain and lowly, and free from every stain of the spirit of 
this world. Such was the example of our blessed Redeem- 
er, of whom the beloved disciple said, " He that saith he 
abideth in Him, ought also to walk, even as he walked." 

John Bradford, who suffered martyrdom, under Queen 
Mary, wrote a letter to his friends out of prison, a short 
time before he was burnt, in which are these expressions: 
*' Consider your dignity as children of God, and temples 



24 S 

of the Holy Ghost, and members of Christ; be ashamed 
therefore to think, speak, or do any thing unseemly for 
God's children and the members of Christ." Fox's Acts 
and ^lonaments, p. 1177. 



CHAPTER II . 

On the Example of Christ. 

As my mind hatli been brought into a brotherly feeling 
with the poor, who are under trials in regard to getting a 
living, in a way answerable to the purity of truth; a labor 
of heart hath attended me, that their way may not be made 
difficult through the love of money, in those who are tried 
with plentiful estates, but that they with tenderness of heart 
may sympathize with them. It was the saying of our 
blessed Redeemer, " Ye cannot serve God and Mammon." 
There is a deep feeling of the way of purity, a way in 
which the wisdom of the world hath no part, but which is 
opened by the spirit of truth, and is " called the way of 
iioliness:" a way in which the traveller is employed in 
^Yatching unto prayer; and the outward gain w^e get in this 
journey is considered as a trust committed to us, by Him 
who formed and supports the world, and is the rightful di- 
rector of the use and application of the produce of it. 

Now, except the mind be preserved chaste, there is no 
safety for us; but in an enstrangement from true resignation, 
the spirit of the world casts up away, in which gain is many 
times principally attended to, and in which there is a selfish 
application of outward treasures. How agreeable to the 
true harmony of society, is that exhortation of the apostle; 
" Look not every man on his own things, but every man 
also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you 
which was also in Christ Jesus." 

A person in outward prosperity may have the power of 
obtaining riches, but the same mind being in him which is 
in Christ Jesus, he may feel a tenderness of heart towards 
those of low degree; and instead of setting himself above 
them, may look upon it as an unmerited favor, that his way 



244 

through Hfe is more easy than the way of many others; he may 
improve every opportunity of leading forth out of ihose 
customs which have entangled the family; employ his time 
in looking into the wants of the poor members, and hold 
forth such a perfect example of humiliation, that the pure 
witness may be reached in many minds; and the way 
opened for an harmonious walking together. 

Jesus Christ, in promoting the happiness of others, was 
not deficient in looking for the helpless who lay in obscuri- 
ty; nor did he save anything to render himself honorable 
among men, which might have been of more use to the 
w^eaker members in his Father's family. Of his compas- 
sion towards us, I may now speak a little. He who was 
perfectly happy in himself, moved with infinite love, " took 
not upon him the nature of angels," but our imperfect na- 
ture, and therein wrestled with the temptations which at- 
tend us in this life; and being the son of him who is great- 
er than earthly princes, yet he became a companion to poor, 
sincere-hearted men; and though he gave the clearest evi- 
dence that Divine power attended him, yet the most unfa 
vorable constructions were framed by a self-righteous peo- 
ple; the miracles he performed were represented as the ef- 
fect of a diabolical power, and endeavors were used to 
render him hateful, as having his mission from the prince 
of darkness; nor did their envy cease till they look him 
like a criminal, and brought him to trial. Though some may 
affect the appearance of being unmoved at the apprehen- 
sion of distress, our dear Redeemer, who was perfectly 
sincere, having the same human nature as we have, and 
feeling a little before he was apprehended, the weight of 
that work upon him, for which he came into the world, was 
'' sorrowful, even unto death." Here the human nature 
struggled to be excused from a cup so bitter; but his prayers 
centred in resignation, " Not my will, but thine be done." 
In this conflict so great was his agony, that '' sweat like 
drops of blood fell from him to the ground." 

Behold now, as foretold by the prophet, he is in a judi- 
cial manner " numbered with the transgressors." Behold 
him, as some poor man of no reputation, standing before 
the high priest and elders, and before Herod and Pilate, 



245 

when witnesses appear against him; and he, mindful of the* 
most gracious design of his coming, declined to plead in 
his own defence, ''but as a sheep that is dumb before his 
shearer," so, under many accusations, revilings, and buf- 
fetings, he remained silent. And though he signified to 
Peter, that he had access to power sufficient to overthrow 
all their outward forces; yet, retaining a resignation to suf- 
fer for the sins of mankind, he exerted not that power, but 
permitted them to go on in their malicious designs, and 
pronounce Him to be worthy of death-, even Him who was 
perfect in goodness. Thus, " in his humJliation his judg- 
ment was taken away," and He, like some vile criminal, 
was led as a lamb to the slaughter." Under these heavy 
trials (though poor unstable Pilate was convinced of his in- 
nocence) the people generally looked on him as a deceiver, 
and a blasphemer, and the approaching punishment as a just 
judgment upon Him. " They esteemed him smitten of 
God, and afflicted." So great had been the surprise of his 
disciples, at his being taken by armed men, that they " for- 
sook him and fied;" thus they hid their faces from him, he 
was despised, and by their conduct it appeared as though 
" they esteemed him not." 

But contrary to the opinion of his being smitten of 
God and afflicted, it was for our sakes that " he was put 
to grief; he was wounded for our transgressions; he was 
bruised for our iniquities;" and under the weight of them, 
manifesting the deepest compassion for the instruments of 
his misery. He labored as their advocate, and in the depths 
of affliction, with an unconquerable patience cried out, 
'' Father forgive them; for they know not what they do!" 

Now this mind being in us, which was in Christ Jesus, 
it removes from our hearts the desire of superiority, world- 
ly honor, or greatness; a deep attention is felt to the Di- 
vine counsellor, and an ardent engagement to promote, as 
far as we may be enabled, the happiness of mankind uni- 
versally. This state, in which every motion from a selfish 
spirit yieldeth to pure love, I may with gratitude to the 
Father of mercies acknowledge, is often opened before me 
as a pearl to dig after; attended with a living concern, that 
among the many nations and families of the eartli, those 

21* 



246 

who believe in the Messiah, that *' he was manifested to 
destroy the works of the Devil," and thus to " take away 
the sins of the world," may experience the will of our 
heavenly Father "to be done on earth as it is Heaven." 
Strong are the desires I often feel, that this holy profession 
may remain unpolluted, and that the believers in Christ 
may so abide in the pure, inward feeling of His spirit, that 
the wisdom from above may shine forth in their hves, as a 
light by which others may be instrumentally helped on their 
way, in the true harmonious walking. 



CHAPTER III. 

On Merchandizing. 

When the treasures of pure love are opened, and we 
obediently follow Him who is the light of life, the mind 
becomes chaste; and a care is felt, that the unction from 
the Holy one jnay be our leader in every undertaking. 

In being crucified to the world, broken off from that 
friendsliip which is enmity with God, and dead to the cus- 
toms and fashions which have not their foundation in the 
truth; the way is prepared for lowliness in outward living, 
and for a disentanglement from those snares which attend 
the love of monev; and when the faithful friends of Christ 
are so situated that merchandize appeals to be their duty, 
they feel a restraint from proceeding farther than He owns 
their proceeding; being convinced that we are not our own, 
but are bought with n price, that none of us may live to 
ourselves, but to Him who died for us. Thus ihey are 
taught, not only to keep to moderation and u[)r!ghtness in 
their dealings, but to consider the tendency of their pro- 
ceeding; to do nothing which they know would operate 
agaiiist the cause of universal righteousness; and to keep 
continually in view the spreading of the peaceable kingdom 
of Christ among mankind. 

Tiie prophet Isaiah spake of the gathered church, under 
the similitude of a city, in which many being employed, 
were all preserved in purity: " They shall call them the 



547 

holy people, the redeemed of the Lord; and thou 
shalt be called Sought out, A city not forsaken." Ixil. 
12. And the apostle after mentioning the mystery of Christ's 
sufferings, exhorts, " Be ye holy in all manner of conver- 
sation." 1 Pet. i. 15. There is a conversation neces- 
sary in trade; and there is a conversation so foreign from 
the nature of Christ's kingdom, that it is represented under 
the similitude of one man pushing another vv^ith a warlike 
weapon; " There is that speaketh like the piercings of a 
sword." Prov. xii. 18. Now in all our concerns it is 
necessary that the leading of the Spirit of Christ be hum- 
bly waited for, and faithfully followed, as the onl y means 
of being preserved chaste as an holy people, who " in all 
things are circumspect," Exod. xxiii. 13; that nothing 
which we do may carry the appearance of an approbation 
of the works of wickedness, make the unrighteous more at 
ease in unrighteousness, or occasion the injuries committed 
against the oppressed to be more lightly regarded. 

When morality is kept to, and supported by the inhab- 
itants of a country, a certain reproach attends those indi- 
viduals among them, who manifestly deviate therefrom. 
Thus, if a person of good report be charged with stealing 
goods out of an open shop, in the day time, and on a public 
trial be found guilty, and the law be put in execution, he 
sustains a loss of reputation; but if he be convicted a se- 
cond and third time of the like ofTence, his good name 
would cease among them w^ho knew these things. If his 
neighbor, reputed an honest man, be charged with buying 
goods of this thief, knowing they were stolen, and on a 
public trial be found guilty, this purchaser would meet with 
dis-esteem; but if he knowingly persisted in buying stolen 
goods, and vv'as publicly convicted thereof a second and a 
third time, he would no longer be considered an honest man 
by those who knew these things; nor would it appear of 
good report, to be found in his company or buying his traf- 
fic, till some evident tokens of sincere repentance appear- 
ed in him; but when iniquity is committed openly, and the 
authors of it are not brought to justice, nor put to shame, 
their hands grow strong. Thus, the general corruption of 
the Jews, shortly before their state was broken up by the 



24Q 

Chaldeans, is described by their boldness in impiety; for 
as their leaders were connected together in wickedness, 
they strengthened one another, and grew confident; " Were 
they ashamed when they had conimitted abominations? 
nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they 
blush:" Jer. vi. 15. On which account the Lord thus 
expostulates w^ith them. " What hath my beloved to do 
in my house, seeing she hath wrought lewdness with many, 
and the holy flesh is passed from thee? when thou doest 
evil, then thou rejoicest." Jer. xi. 15. 

Now — the faithful friends of Christ, who hunger and 
thirst after righteousness, and who inwardly breathe that 
His kingdom may " come on earth as it is in heaven," are 
taught to be quick of understanding in his fear, and to be 
very attentive to the means he may appr.int for promoting 
pure righteousness in the earth; and as shame is due to 
those whose works manifestly operate against the gracious 
design of his suffering for us, a care lives on their minds 
that no wrong customs, however supported, may bias their 
judgments; but that, they may humbly abide under the 
cross, and be preserved in a conduct which may not con- 
tribute to strengthen the hands of the wicked in their wick- 
edness, or to remove shame from those to whom it is just- 
ly due. The coming of that day is precious in which we 
experience the truih of this expression, " The Lord our 
righteousness;" Jer. xxiii. 6., and feel liim to be made 
" unto us wisdom, and sanctification." 

The example of a lighteous man is often looked at with 
attention. When righteous men join in business, they give 
encoura2;ement to others; one irrain of incense deliberatelv 
offered to the prince of this world, renders an offering to 
God unacceptable; and, from those esteemed leaders of 
the peo[)le, may be injurious to the weak; it therefore re- 
quires deep humility of heart, to follow Him faithfully, who 
alone gives sound wisdom, and the spirit of true discerning. 
O how necessary it is to consider the weight of a holy pro- 
fession! The conduct of some formerly, gave occasion of 
complaint against them, " Thou hast defiled thy sanctua- 
ries by the multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of 
thy traffic;" Ezek. xxviii. 18; and in several places it is 



249 

charged against Israel that they had polluted the Holy 
name. 

The prophet Isaiah represents inward sanctification un- 
der the similitude of being purged from that which is fuel 
for fire; and particularly describes the outward fruits, 
brought forth by those who dwell in ihis inward holiness; 
*' they w^alk righteously, and speak uprightly." By walk- 
ing, he represents the journey through life, as a righteous 
journey; and by speaking uprightly, he seems to point at 
that which Moses appears to have had in view, when he 
thus expressed himself, " Thou shalt not follow a multi- 
tude to do [evil, neither shalt thou speak in a cause to de- 
cline after many to wrest judgment." Exod. xxiii. 2. 

He goes on to show their firmness in equity ; represent- 
ing them as persons superior to all the arts of getting mo- 
ney, which have not righteousness for their foundation ; 
" They despise the gain of oppressions ;" and he further 
shows how careful they are that no prospects of gain, may 
induce them to become partial in judgment respecting an 
injury; " They shake their hands from holding bribes." 

Again, when any interest is so connected with shedding 
blood, that the cry of innocent blood goes also with it; he 
points out their care to keep innocent blood fron) crying 
against them, under the similitude of a man stopping his 
ears to prevent a sound from entering his head, ■•' They 
stop their ears from hearing blood;" and when they know that 
wickedness is committed, he points out their care, that they 
should not, by an unguarded friendship with the authors of 
it, appear like unconcerned lookers on, but as people so 
deeply afl:ected with sorrow, that they cannot endure to 
stand by and behold it; this he represents under the simil- 
itude of a man " shutting his eyes from seeing evil." 

He proceeds, in the spirit of prophecy, to show how the 
faithful, being supported under temptations, would be pre- 
served from defilement by tlie love of money ; that as they, 
who in a reverent waiting on God, feel their strength re- 
newed, are said to " mount upward ;" so here their pre- 
servation from the snare of unrighteous gain, is represented 
by the hkeness of a man borne up above all crafty, artful 
rneans of getting the advantage of another, " He shall 



^50 

dwell oil high ;" and he points out the stabihty and firmness 
of their condition, " His place of defence shall be the mu- 
nition of rocks;" and that, under all outward appearance of 
loss, in denying himself gainful profits for rigliteousness' 
sake, through the care of him who provides for the spar- 
rows, he should yet have a supply answerable to His infi- 
nite wisdom, " Bread shall be given him, his waters shall 
be sure." As our Saviour mentions the sight of God to be 
attainable by "the pure in heart;" so here the prophet 
points out how, in true sanctification, the understanding is 
opened to behold the peaceable, harmonious nature of His 
kingdom, " Thine eyes shall see the King in his beauty;" 
and that looking beyond all the afflictions which attend the 
righteous, to '' a habitation eternal in the heavens," they 
with an eye divinely opened, " shall behold the land that is 
very fiir off." 

1 often remember, and to me the subject is awful, that 
the great judge of all the earth doeth that which is right, 
and that He " before whom the nations are as the 
diop of a bucket," is " no respecter of persons." Happy 
for those who, like the inspired prophet, " in the way of his 
judgments wait for Him." When we feel Him to sit as a 
refiner with fire, and know a resignedness wrought in us, to 
that which He appoints for us, his blessing in a very low 
estate will be found to be more precious, than much out- 
ward treasure in those ways of life, in which the leadings 
of His spirit are not followed. 

The prophet foreseeing a Divine work among many 
people, declared in the name of the Lord, " I will gather 
all nations and tongues, and they shall come and see my 
glory." Isaiah Ixvi. 18. And again, " from the rising of 
the sun even unto the going down of the same, my name 
shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place in- 
cense shall be offered unto my name, and a pure offering." 
Malachi i. 11. From this it is evident that the prophets 
had an inward sense of the spreading of the kingdom of 
Christ: He was spoken of as one who should take the 
heathen for his inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the 
earth for his possession. Psal. ii. 8. Also that He should 



251 

be given for a light to the Gentiles; and for salvation nnlo 
the ends of the earth. Isaiah, xlix. 6. 

When we meditate on this Divine work, as a work of 
ages; a work which the prophets felt long before Christ 
appeared visibly on earth, and remember the bitter agonies 
He endured when He '' poured out his soul unto death,'' 
that the Heathen nations as w^ell as others, might come to 
the knowledge of the truth and be saved; — When we con- 
template this marvellous work, as that which " the angels 
desire to look into," 1 Pet. i. 12; and behold peo[)le 
among whom this light hath eminently broken forth, and 
who have received many favors from the bountiful hard of 
our Heavenly Father, not only indifferent with respect to 
publishing the glad tidings among the Gentiles, who are 
sitting in darkness, and entangled with many superstitions; 
but who, as piling after wealth and worldly honors, and 
taking such means to obtain their ends, as tend to stir up 
wrath and indignation, and to beget an abhorrence in them 
to the name of Christianity; — When these things are 
weightily attended to, how mournful is the subject? 

It is Vvorthy of rememjbrance, thai people in different 
ages, deeply baptized into the nature of that work for 
which Christ suffered, have joyfully offered up their liberty 
and lives for the promoting of it in the earth. 

Polycarp, who was reputed a disciple of the apostle 
John, having attained to great age, was at length sentenced 
to die for liis religion; and being brought to the fire, pray- 
ed nearly as follows, '' Thou God and Father of our Lord 
.fesus Christ, by whom I have received the knowledge of 
thee! O God of the angels and powers, and of every liv- 
ing creature, and of all sorts of just men which live in thy 
presence; I thank thee that thou hast graciously vouchsafed 
this day and this hour to allot me a portion among the num- 
ber of martyrs, among the people of Christ, unto the resur- 
rection of everlasting life; amiOng whom I shall be receiv- 
ed in thy sight this day, as a fruitful and acceptable sacri- 
fice; wherefore for all this I praise thee, I bless thee, I 
glorify thee, through the everlasting High-priest, Jesus 
Christ, thy well beloved son; to whom, with thee and the 
Holy Ghost, be all glory, world without end. Amen." 



252 

Bishop Latimer, when sentence of death by fire was 
pronounced against him^ on account of his firmness in the 
cause of religion, said, " I thank God most heartily, that 
he hath prolonged my life to this end; that I may, in this 
case, glorify him by this kind of death." Fox's Acts and 
Mon. 936. 

William Dewsbury, who had suffered much for his re- 
ligion, in his last sickness, encouraging his friends to faith- 
fulness, made mention like good old Jacob, of the loving 
kindness of God to him in the course of his life, and that 
through the power of Divine love, he, for Christ's sake, 
had joyfully entered prisons. See introduction to his 
works. 

I mention these, as a few examples out of many, of the 
powerful Operation of the spirit of Christ, when people are 
fully devoted to it, and of the ardentlongings in their minds 
for the spreading of his kingdom among mankind. Now 
to those in the present age, who truly know Christ, and 
who feel the nature of his peaceable government opened in 
their understandings, how loudly is the call to faithfulness; 
that in following this pure Light of life, " we, as workers 
together with Him," may labor in that great work for which 
He was offered as a sacrifice on the cross; and that His 
peaceable doctrines may shine through us in their real har- 
mony, at a time when the name of Christianity is become 
hateful to many of the heathens. 

When Gehazi had obtained treasures, which the prophet, 
under Divine direction, had refused, and was returned from 
the business; the prophet troubled at his conduct, queried 
if it was a time thus to prepare for a specious living. '^ Is 
it a time to receive money, and to receive garments, men 
servants and maid servants? the leprosy therefore of Naa- 
man shall cleave unto thee and unto thy seed for ever." 2 
Kings v. 26. O that we may lay to heart the condition of 
the present time; and humbly follow His counsel, who 
alone is able to prepare the way for a true harmonious 
walking among mankind! 



253 

CHAPTER IV. 

On Divine Admonitions. 

Such are the perfections of our Heavenly Father, that 
in all the dispensations of his providence, it is our duty 
** in every thing to give thanks." Though from the first 
settlement of this part of America, He hath not extended 
his judgments so as to produce famine, yet worms at times 
have come forth beyond numbering, and have laid waste 
fields of grain and grass; another kind also in great multi- 
tudes, working out of sight in grass ground, have so eaten 
the roots, that the surface, being loosened from the soil be- 
neath, might be taken off in great sheets. 

These devouring creatures appearing seldom, and in such 
multitudes, their generation appears different from most 
other reptiles, and they were called by the prophet " God's 
army sent among the people." Joel ii. 25. 

There have been tempests of hail, which have very 
much destroyed the grain where they extended. Through 
long drought in summer, grain in some places hath been 
less than half the usual quantity;* and I have beheld with 
attention, from week to week, how dryness from the top of 
the earth hath extended deeper and deeper, while the corn 
and plants have languished; and, with reverence, my mind! 
hath been turned towards Him, who being perfect in good^ 
ness, wisdom and power, doeth all things right. After 
long drought, when the sky hath grown dark with a collec- 
tion of matter, and clouds like lakes of water have hung 
over our heads, from which the thirsty land hath been soak- 
ed; I have at times with awfulness beheld the vehement 
operation of lightning, made sometimes to accompany 
these blessings, as a messenger from Him who created ail 
things, to remind us of our duty in a right use of those bene- 
fits, and to give striking admonitions, that we do not mis- 

* When crops fail, I often feel a tender care that the case of poor ten- 
ants may be mercifully considered. 

22 



254 

apply those gifts, which an Almighty power bestows upon 
us. 

When I consider that many of our fellow creatures suf- 
fer much in some places, for want of the necessaries of 
life, whilst those who rule over them are too much given to 
luxury, and divers vanities; and behold the apparent devia- 
tion from pure wisdom among us, in the use of the out- 
ward gifts of God; those marks of famine appear like hum- 
bling admonitions from Him, that we might be instructed 
by gentle cliastisements, and might seriously consider our 
ways; and remember that the outward supply of life is a 
gift from our heav^enly Father, and that we should not ven- 
ture to use, or to apply his gifts, in a way contrary to' pure 
wisdom. 

Should we continue to reject those merciful admonitions, 
and to use his gifts at home, contrary to tlie gracious design 
of the giver, or to send ihcm abroad in a way of trade, 
which the spirit of truth doth not lead into; and should He, 
whose eyes are upon all our ways, extend his chastisements 
so far as to reduce us to much greater distress than hath 
yet been felt by these provinces, with what sorrow of 
heart might we meditate on this remonstrance, "■ Hast thou 
not procured this unto thyself, in that thou hast forsaken the 
Lord thy God, when He led thee by the way? Thine 
own wickedness shall correct thee, and thy backslidings 
shall reprove thee; know tlierefore and see, that it is an 
evil thing and bitter, that thou hast forsaken the Lord thy 
God, and that my fear is not in thee, saith the Lord God 
of hosts." Jer. ii. 17 — 19. 

My mind hatii often been affected with sorrow, in be- 
holding a wrong application of the gifts of our heavenly 
Father; and these expressions concerning the defilement of 
the earth have been opened to my undeistanding, " The 
earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled 
with violence." Gen. vi. 11. Again, "The earth also 
is defiled under the inhabitants thereof, because they have 
broken the everlasting covenant." Isaiah xxiv. 5. The 
earth being the work of a Divine power, may not as such 
be accounted unclean; but when violence is committed 
thereon, and the channel of righteousness is so obstructed, 



255 

that " in our skirts is found the blood of the souls of poof 
innocents; not by a secret search, but upon all these;" 
Jerem. ii. 34.* — when blood shed unrighteously, remains 
unatoned for, and the inhabitants are not effectually purged 
from it, when they do not w^ash their hands in innocency, 
as w^as figured in the law, in the case of one being found 
slain; but seek for gain arising from scenes of violence 
and oppression, it may be said, "the land is polluted with 
blood." Moreover, when the earth is planted and tilled, 
and its fruits are applied to support unrighteous purposes, 
the gracious design of infinite goodness, in these his gifts, 
being perverted, the earth is defiled; and the complaint 
formerly uttered becomes applicable: " Thou hast made 
me to serve w^ith thy sins; thou hast wearied me with 
thine iniquities." Isaiah xliii. 24. 

* See a caution and warning to Great Britain and her colonies by An- 
thony Benezet, page 31. 



256 



REMARKS 



OPf 



SUNDRY SUBJECTS 

[First printed in London, 1773.] 



CHAPTER I. 

On Lovi7isr our Neisrhbors as ourselves. 



"& 



When we lov^e the Lord with all our hearts, and his crea- 
tures in his love, we are then preserved in tenderness both 
towards mankind and the animal creation; but if another 
spirit gets room in our minds, and we follow it in our pro- 
ceedings, we are then in the way of disordering the affairs 
of society. People may have no intention to oppress, yet 
by entering on expensive ways of life, their minds may be 
so entangled, and so engaged to support expensive customs, 
as to be estranged from the pure, sympathizing spirit. 

As I have travelled in England, I have had a tender 
feeling of the condition of poor people, some of whom, 
though honest and industrious, have nothing to spare to- 
wards paying for the schooling of their children. There 
is a proportion between labor and the necessaries of life, 
and in true brotherly love, the mind is open to feel after 
the necessities of the poor. Among them there are some 
that are weak through age, and others of a weakly nature 
who pass through straits, in very private life, without ask- 
ing relief from the public. 

Weakly persons in the field and in the shops, and wo- 
men who spin and knit in the manufactories, in performing 



257 

what is esteemed a day's labor by the strong and healthy, 
often experience much weariness, and many sighs I believe 
are uttered in secret, unheard by some who might easa 
their burdens. The hardships of the poor are sometimes 
increased through want of more agreeable nourishment, 
more plentiful fuel, and warmer clothing in the winter, than 
their wages will procure. 

When I have beheld plenty in some houses to a degree 
of luxury; the condition of poor children who are brought 
up without learning, and the weakly and aged who strive 
to live by their labor, have often revived in my mind; and 
of which some w^io live in fulness need to be put in re- 
membrance. Few if any could behold their fellow crea- 
tures lie long in distress, and forbear to help them, when 
they could do it without any inconvenience; but customs 
requiring much labor to support them, often lie heavy on 
the poor; while they who live in these customs are so en- 
tangled in a multitude of unnecessary concerns, that they 
think but little of the hardships which the poor people go 
through. 

If several principal men in business to provide for un- 
necessary expense in their families, unite in fixing the 
wages of those who work for hire, so that by moderate in- 
dustry they will not afford a comfortable living for their fa- 
miHes, and a proper education for their children; it is like 
laying a temptation in the way of some to strive for a high^ 
er place than they are in, when they have not stock sufH- 
cient for it. 

Now I feel a concern in the spring of pure love, that 
all who have plenty of outward substance, may example 
others in the right use of things; and carefully look into 
the condition of poor people, not abridging them of their 
due with regard to wages. While hired laborers may, by 
moderate industry and the Divine blessing, live comfortably, 
raise up famiHes, and give them suitable education, it ap- 
pears reasonable for them to be content with their wages. 
If they who have plenty love their fellow creatures in that 
love which is Divine, and in all their proceedings have an 
equal regard to the good of mankind universally, their place 
}n society is a place of care, an office requiring attentiono 

22* 



258 

The more we possess, the greater is our trust, and with an 
increase of treasure, an increase of care becomes necessary. 

When our will is subject to the will of God, and in re- 
lation to the things of this world, we have nothing in view 
but a comfortable living, equally with the rest of our fel- 
low-creatures, then outward treasures are no farther desir- 
able than as we feel a gilt in our minds equal to the trust, 
and s'.rength to act as dutiful children in His service, who 
hath formed all mankind, and appointed a subsistence for 
us in this world. A desire of treasures from any other 
motive, appears to be against that command of our blessed 
Saviour, '^ Lay not up for yourselves treasures on^earth." 
Matt. vi. 19. He forbids not laying up in the summer 
against the wants of winter; nor doih he teach us to be 
slothful in worldly business; but in this prohibition He puts 
in yourselves; " Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon 
earth." 

Now in the pure light, this language is understood; for 
in the love of Christ there is no respect of persons: and 
while we abide in his love, we live not to ourselves, but to 
Him who died for us. And as we are thus united in spirit 
to Christ, we are engaged to labor in promoting that work 
in the earth for wliich he suffered, in this state of mind 
our desires are, that every lionest member in society may 
have a portion of treasure, and a share of trust, answer- 
able to that gift, with which our heavenly Father hath gift- 
ed us; for to abide in the love of Christ, and to enjoy a 
comfortable living in this world, is all that is aimed at by 
those members in society, to whom Chiist is made wisdom 
and righteousness. But when they who have much treas- 
ure, are not faithful stewards of the gifts of God, great 
difficulties attend it. 

Now this matter hath deeply affected my mind. The 
Lord, through merciful chnslisen)ents, hath given die a 
feeling of that love in which the liarmony of society stand- 
eih, and a sight of the growth of that seed which bringetli 
forth wars and great calamities in the world; and a concern 
attends me to open it to others. To act with integrity, 
according to that strength of mind and body with which 
our Creator hath endowed each of us, is necessary for all; 



259 

and lie who thus stands in the lowest station, is entitled to 
as comfortable and convenient a living, as he whose gifts 
of mind are greater, and whose cares are more extensive. 

If some endowed with strong understandings as men, 
abide not in the harmonious state in which we "love our 
neighbors as ourselves," but walk in that spirit in which 
the children of this world are wise in their generation; 
ihey may, by the strength of contrivance, sometimes gather 
great treasure. But " the wisdom of this world is foolish- 
ness with God;" and if we gather treasures in worldly 
wisdom, we lay up " treasures for ourselves;" and great 
treasures managed in any other spirit than the spirit of tiuth, 
disorder the affairs of society; hereby the good gifts of 
God are turned into the channels of worldly honor, and 
are frequently applied to support luxury; while the wages 
of poor laborers are such, that with moderate industry and 
frugality, they are unable to live comfortably, raise up 
families, and give them suitable education; but through the 
straitness of their condition, they are often drawn on to la- 
bor under weariness, to toiL through hardships themselves, 
and frequently to oppress tliose useful animals with which 
we are entrusted. Throughout all ages, Divine love is that 
alone in whicli- dominion has been, is, and will be rightly 
conducted. 

In this harmony, the endowments of men are so em- 
ployed that the friend and the governor are united in one; 
and oppressive customs come to an end. Riches in the 
hands of individuals in society, are attended with some de- 
gree of power; and so far as power is put forth separate 
from pure love, so far the government of the Prince of 
peace is interrupted; and as we know not that our children 
after us will dwell in that state in which powder is rightly 
applied, to lay up riches for them appears to be against the 
nature of his sovernment. 

The earth, through the labor of men under the blessing 
of Him who formed it, yieldeth a supply for the inhabit- 
ants from one generation to another, and they who walk in 
the pure light, are prepared to taste and relish, not only the 
blessings vv^hich are spiritual, but also to feel a sweetness 
and satisfaction in a right use of the good gifts of God in 



260 

the visible creation. Thus we see that man's happiness 
stands not in great possessions, but in a heart devoted to 
follow Christ, in that use of things, in which customs con- 
trary to universal love have no power over us. In this 
state, our hearts are prepared to trust in God, and our 
desires for our children and posterity are, that they, with 
the rest of mankind in ages to come, may be of that 
number of whom He haih said, " I will be a father unto> 
you, and ye sliall be my sons and daughters." 2 Cor. 
vi. 18. 

In laboring to attain a right end it is necessary to keep 
to right means. If, in striving to shun poverty, we strive 
only in that state in which Christ is the light of our life, 
our labors will stand in the true harmony of society: but if 
people are confident that the end aimed at is good, and in 
this confidence pursue it so eagerly as not to wait lor the 
Spirit of truih to lead them, then they come to loss. Christ 
is given to be '' a leader and commander to the people." 
Isaiah Iv. 4. Again; '' The Lord shall guide thee con- 
tinually." Isaiah Iviii. 11. Again; •"' Lord thou wilt ordain 
peace for us: for thou also hast wrought all our works in 
us." Isaiah xxvi. 12. '' In the Lord have I righteousness 
and sirenglh." Isaiah xlv. 24. 

In this state our minds would be preserved watchful; 
we should follow the leadings of the spirit of Christ in all 
our proceedings in this world ; and a car^ would be felt 
for a general reformation; that our own posterity, with 
the rest of mankind in succeeding ages, might not be en- 
tangled by oppressive customs, transmitted through our 
hands. But if people in the narrowness of natural love, 
are afraid that their children will be oppressed by the rich; 
and, tl, rough an eager desire to get treasures, depart from 
the pure leadings of truth in one case, though it may seem 
to be a small matter, yet the mind, even in that small matter, 
may be emboldened to continue in a way of proceeding with- 
out wailing for the Divine Leader. Thus people may grow 
expert in business, wise in the wisdom of this world, retain 
a fair reputation among men, and yet, being strangers to 
the voice of Christ, the safe leader of his flock, the treas- 
ures thus gotten may be like snares to the feet of their pos- 
terity. But in keeping faithful to the pure counsellor, andj 



261 

under trying circumstances, suffering adversity f*or right- 
eousness' sake, there is a reward. 

If we, being poor, are hardly deah with by those who are 
rich, and under ihis difficulty are frugal and industrious, 
and in true humility open our case to them who oppress 
us, the pure witness in their minds may be reached; and 
though we should remain under difficulties as to the out- 
ward, yet if we abide in the love of Christ, all will 
work for our good. When we feel what it is to suffer in 
in the suffering slate, we experience the truth of these ex- 
pressions; " As the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so 
our consolation also aboundeth by Christ." 2 Cor. i. 5. 
But if we who are of a middle station between riches and 
poverty, are affected at limes wiih the oppression of the 
poor, and feel a tender regard for our posterity after us; 
O how necessary it is that we wait for the pure counsel of 
truth! Many have seen the hardships of the poor, and feel 
an eager desire that their children may be put in a way to 
escape these hardships; but how few have continued in that 
pure love W'hich openelh onr understandings to proceed 
rightly under these difficulties! How few have faithfully 
followed that Holy Leader, who prepares his people to la- 
bor for the restoration of true harmony among our fellow - 
creatures! 

In the pure gospel spirit, " w^e walk by faith and not by 
sight." 2 Cor. v. 7. In the obedience of faith we die to 
self-love, and our life being '•' hid with Christ in God," 
our hearts are enlarged towards mankind universally; but 
in departing from the true light of life, many in striving to get 
treasures have ''stumbled on the dark mountains." That 
purity of life w-hich proceeds from faithfulness in following 
the pure spirit of truth, that state in which our minds are 
devoted to serve God, and all our wants are bounded by his 
wisdom; has often been opened to me, as a place of re- 
tirement for the children of the light, in which w^e may be 
separated from that which disordereth and confuseth the af- 
airs of society, and may have a testimony for our inno- 
cence in the hearts of those who behold us. 

Through departing from the truth as it is in Jesus, and 
introducing ways of life attended with unnecessary expen- 



262 

ses, many wants have arisen, the minds of people have 
been employed in studying to get wealth, in the pursuit of 
which some departing from equity, have retained a profes- 
sion of religion; others have looked at their example, and 
have thereby been strengthened to proceed further in the 
same way: thus many have encouraged the trade of taking 
men from Africa, and selling them as slaves. 

It hath been computed, that near one hundred thousand 
negroes have, of late years, been annually taken from that 
coast, by ships employed in the English trade. As I have 
travelled on religious visits in some parts of America, I 
Ijave seen many of these people under the command of 
overseers, in a painful servitude. I have beheld them as 
Gentiles, under people professing Christianity, not only 
kept ignorant of the Holy Scriptures, but under great pro- 
vocations to wiath; of whom it may truly be said, " They 
that rule over them make them to how)," Isaiah Hi. 5. and 
the Holy Name is abundantly blasphemed. When chil- 
dren are taught to read the sacred writings while young, 
and exampled in meekness and humility, it is often helpful 
to them, nor is this any more than a debt due from us to a 
succeeding age. But when youth are pinched for want of 
the necessaries of life, forced to labor hard under the harsh 
rebukes of rigorous overseers, and many times endure un- 
merciful whipj)ings; in such an education, how great are 
the disadvantages they lie under! And liovv forcibly do 
these things work against the increase of the government 
of the Prince of peace! 

Humphrey Smith in his woi'ks, p. 125, speaking of the 
tender feeling of the love of God in his heart when he was 
a child, says, " By the violent wrathful nature that ruled in 
others, was my quietness disturbed, and anger begotten in 
me toward them; yet that of God in me was not wholly 
overcome, but his love was felt in my heart, and great was 
my ^rief when the earthly-mindedness and wrathful nature 
so provoked me that I was estranged from it. x\nd this I 
write as a warning to parents and others, that in the fear of 
the living God, you may train up the youth, and may not 
be a means of bringing them into such alienation." 

Many are the vanities and luxuries of the present a^e, 



263 

and in laboring to support a way of living conformable to 
the present world, the departure from that wisdom which 
is pure and peaceable, hath been great. Under the sense 
of a deep revolt, and an overflowing stream of unrighteous- 
ness, my life has often been a life of mourning, and tender 
desires are raised in me, that the nature of this practice 
may be laid to heart. 

I have read some books written by people vvho were ac- 
quainted with the manner of getting slaves in Africa. I 
have had verbal relations of this nature from several negroes 
brought from Africa, who have learned to talk English. I 
have also sundry times heard Englishmen speak on this sub- 
ject, who have been in Africa on this business ; and from 
all these accounts it appears that great violence is commit- 
ted, and much blood is shed in getting slaves from Africa. 

When three or four hundred slaves are put in the hold of 
a vessel in a hot climate, their breathing soon infects the air. 
Were that number of free people to go as passengers with 
all things proper for their voyage, inconvenience would 
arise from their number : but slaves are taken by violence, 
and frequently endeavor to kill the white people, that they 
may return to their native land. Hence they are often 
kept under such confinement, that a scent ariseth in the 
hold of the ship, and distempers often break out among 
them, of which many die. Of this tainted air in the hold 
of ships freighted v/ith slaves, I have had several accounts, 
some in print, and some verbal, and all agree that the scent 
is grievous. When these people are sold in x\merica, and 
in the islands, they are made to labor in a manner more 
servile and constant, ihan that which they were used to at 
home; thus, w^ith grief, with different diet from what has 
been common with them, and with hard labor, some thou- 
sands are computed to die every year in what is called the 
seasoning. 

Thus it appears that great numbers of these people are 
every year brought to an untimely end ; being innocent 
people who suffer under hard-hearted men, even unto 
death ; and the channels of equity are so obstructed, that 
the cause of the sufferers is not judged in righteousness, 
" but the land is defiled with blood." Numb. xxxv. 33. 



264 

When blood hath been shed unrighteously, and remains 
unaloned for, the cry thereof is very piercing. Under the 
humbling dispensations of Divine Providence, this cry hath 
deeply affected my heart, and I feel a concern to open, as 
I may be enabled, that which lieth heavy on my mind. 

When " the iniquity of the house of Israel and Judah 
was exceeding great, when the land was defiled with blood, 
and the city full of perverseness," Ezek. ix. 9. "some 
were found sighing and crying for the abominations of the 
times;" Ezek. ix. 4. and such as live under a right feel- 
ing of our condition as a nation, will I tiust be sensible, 
that the Lord at this day doth call to mourning, though ma- 
ny are ignorant of It. So powerful are bad customs when 
they become general, that people growing bold through the 
example of others, have often been unmoved at the most 
serious warnings. 

Through abiding in the love of Christ, we feel a tender- 
ness in our hearts towards our fellow-creatures who are en- 
tangled in oppressive customs; and a concern so to walk, 
that our conduct may not be a means of strengthening them 
in error. It was the command of the Lord through Mo- 
ses, " Thou shalt not hate thy brother In thine heart : thou 
shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbor, and not suffer sin 
upon him." Lev. xix. 17. Again, " Keep thee far from 
a false matter ; and the innocent and righteous slay thou 
not." Exod. xxiil. 7. 

The prophet Isaiah mentions that the true church. In 
time of outward quiet, should not only be clear of oppres- 
sion, but should be far from it, " Thou shalt be far from 
oppression." Isaiah llv. 14. Now these words, far from, 
appear to have an extensive meaning, and to convey instruc- 
tion In regard to that of which Solomon speaks, " Though 
hand join in hand, the wicked shall not go unpunished." 
Prov. xvl. 5. It was a complaint against one of old, 
" When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with 
him." Psalm. 1. 18. 

The prophet Jeremiah represents the degrees of prepar- 
ation towards Idolatrous sacrifice, by the similitude of a 
work carried on by children, men, and women: " The 
children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and 



265 

ihe women knetid their dough to make cakes to the queen 
of heaven." Jer. vii. 18. It was a complaint of the 
Lord against Israel, through his prophet Ezekiel, that "they 
strengthened the hands of the wicked, and made the heart 
of the righteous sad." Ezek. xiii. 22. Some works of 
iniquity carried on by the people, were represented by the 
prophet Hosea, in the similitude of ploughing, reaping, and 
eating the fruit: " Ye have ploughed wickedness, ye have 
reaped iniquity, ye have eaten the fruit of lies, because 
thou didst trust in thy way, in the multitude of thy mighty 
men." Hosea x. 13. 

Our blessed Saviour, speaking of the people in tiie old 
world, said, *' They did eat, they drank, they married 
wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe 
entered into the ark, and the flood came and destroyed 
ihem all." Luke xvii. 27. The like he spake concern- 
ing tlie [leople of vSodom, who are also represented by the 
prophet as haughty, luxurious, and oppressive: "■ This was 
the iniquity of Sodom: pride, fulness of bread, and abun- 
dance of idleness was in her, and in her daughters; neither 
did she strengthen tiie iiand of the poor and needy." 
Ezek. xvi. 49. 

Now in a revolt so deep as this, when much blood has, 
been shed unrighteously in carrying on the slave trade, 
and in supporting the practice of keeping slaves, which at 
ihis day is unatoned for, and crieih from the earth and from 
the seas against the oppressor: — while this practice is con- 
tinued, and under a great load of guilt more unrighteous- 
ness is committed, the state of things is very moving. 

There is a natural love; and when a parent beholds his 
child in misery, he hath a feeling of his affliction; ])ut in 
Divine love, the heart is enlarged towards mankind univer- 
sally, and prepared to sympathize with strangers, though in 
the lowest stations in life. Of this the prophet appears to. 
have had a feeling, when he said, '' Have we not all one. 
Father? Hath not one G-od created us? Why do we 
deal treacherously every man against his brother, by pro- 
faning the covenant of our fathers?" Mai. ii. 10. 

He who of old heard the groans of the "children of 
Israel, under the hard task-masters in Egypt, hath, I lrnst« 
"23 .. 



266 

looked down from his holy habitation on the miseries of 
these deeply oppressed people. Many lives have been 
shortened through extreme oppression, by laboring to sup- 
port luxury and worldly greatness; and though many peo- 
ple in outward prosperity may think little of these things, 
yet the gracious Creator hath regard to the cries of the in- 
nocent, however unnoticed by men. The Lord, in the 
riches of his goodness, is leading some into the feeling of 
the condition of this people, who cannot rest without labor- 
ing as their advocates; of which in some measure I have 
had experience; for, in the movings of his love in my 
heart, these poor sufferers have been brought near to nje. 

The unoffending, aged, and infirm, being made to labor 
too hard, are kept on a diet less comfortable than their 
weak state requires, and are exposed to great difficulties un- 
der hard-hearted men. To their sufferings I have often been 
a witness: and under the heart-melting power of Divine love, 
their misery hath felt to me like the misery of my parents. 
Innocent youths are taken by violence from their friends 
and native land, and put on board ships with hearts laden 
with sorrow; exposed to great hardships at sea; and placed 
under people, where their lives are attended with great 
provocation to anger and revenge. With the condiiion of 
these youths my mind hath oftcii been affected, as with the 
afflictions of n)y children; and, in a feeling of the misery of 
these people, and of that great offence which is uiinistered 
to them, my tears have often been poured out before the 
Lord. 

That Holy Spirit which affected my heart when I was 
a youili is, I trust, often felt by the negroes in their native 
land, inclining their minds to that which is righteous; and 
had the professed followers of Christ, in all their conduct 
towards them, manifested a disposition answerable to the 
pure principle in their hearts, hov^- might the Holy Name 
have been honored among the Gentiles! and how might 
we have rejoiced in the fulfilling of that prophecy, " I the 
Lord love judgment, I hate robbery for burnt-offering; and 
I will direct their work in truth, and I will make an ever- 
lasting covenant with them. And their seed shall be known 
among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people: 



267 

all that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the 
seed which the Lord hath blessed." Isaiah Ixi. 8. 9. 

But in the present slate of things, liovv contrary is this 
praciice to that meek spirit in which our Savior laid down 
his life for us, that all the ends of the earth might know 
salvation in his name! Hov/ are the sufferings of our bless- 
ed Redeemer set at nought, and his name blasphemed 
among the Gentiles, through the unrighteous proceedings 
of his professed followers! 

My mind hath often been affected, even from the days 
of my youth, under a sense of that marvellous work, for 
which God, in infinite goodness, sent his Son into the 
world. The opening of that spring of living waters, which 
the true believers in Christ experience, by which they are 
redeemed from pride and covetousness, and brought into a 
state of meekness, their hearts being enlarged in true love 
towards their fellows-creatures universally, is precious tome; 
and the spreading of the knowledge of the truth among 
the Gentiles is very desirable. But the professed followers 
of Christ joining in customs evidently unrighteous, mani- 
festly tending to stir up wraih, and increase wars and deso- 
lations, hath often covered my mind with sorrow. 

If we bring this matter home, and as Job proposed to 
his friends, '' Put our souls in their souls stead;" if we 
consider ouiselves and our children as exposed to the hard- 
ships which these people lie under, in supporting an imag- 
inary greatness; did we in such case behold an increase of 
luxury and superfluity among our oppressors, and therewith 
felt an increase of the weight of our burdens, and expect- 
ed our posterity to groan under oppression after us: — under 
all this misery, had we none to plead our cause, nor any 
hope of relief from man, how would our cries ascend to 
the God of the spirits of all flesh, who judgeth the world 
in righteousness, and in his own time is a refuge for the 
oppressed! 

if they who thus afflicted us, continued to lay claim to 
religion, and v/ere assisted in their business by others, who 
were esteemed pious people, and, through a friendship with 
them, strengthened their hands in tyranny; when we were 
hunger-bitten, and could not have sufficient nourishment, 



2m 

but saw tlietn in fulness pleasing iheir tastes with things 
fetched from afar; when wearied with labor, if we were 
denied the liberty to rest, and saw them spending their time 
at ease: if garments answerable to our necessities wero 
denied us, while we saw them clothed hi that which w^as 
cosily and delicate; under such affliction, how would these 
painful feelings rise up as witnesses against their pretended 
devotion! And if the name of their religion was mention- 
ed in our hearing, how would it sound in our ears like a 
word which signified self-exaltation, and hardness of ht-art! 

When a trade is carried on, productive of much misery^ 
and they who suffer by it are some thousand miles off, the? 
danger is the greater of not laying their sufferings to heart. 
In procuring slaves on tfie coast of Africa, many cliildreu 
are stolen privately; wars also are encouraged among the 
negroes, but all is at a great distance. Many groans ariso 
from dying men which we hear not. Many cries are ut- 
tered by widows and fatherless children, which reach not 
our ears. Many cheeks are wet with tears, and faces sad 
with unutterable grief, which we see not. Cruel tyranny 
is encouraged. The hands of robbers are strengthened, 
and thousands reduced to the most abject slavery, whc< 
never injured us. 

Were we, for the term of one year only, to be eye-wit- 
nesses of what passeth in getting these slaves; were the 
blood that is there shed, to be sprinkled on'our garments; 
were the poor captives, bound with thongs, and heavily 
laden with elephants' teeth, to pass before our eyes on 
their way to the sea; were their bitter lameniations, day 
after day, to ring in our ears, and their mournful cries in the 
night to hinder us from sleeping; were we to hear the 
sound of the tumult, when the slaves on board the ships 
attempt to kill the English, and behold the issue of those 
bloody conflicts; what pious man could behold these things, 
and see a trade carried on in this manner, without being 
deeply affected with sorrow! 



269 



CHAPTER IV.* 

Oil Silent Worship, 

Worship In silence hath often been refreshing to my 
mind, and a care attends me that a young generation may 
feel the nature of this worship. 

Great expense attends that which is called Divine wor- 
ship: a considerable part of this expense is applied towards 
outward greatness, and many poor people in raising of 
lithe, labor for the suppost of customs contrary to the sim- 
plicity which is in Christ; towards them my mind hath 
often been moved with pity. 

In pure, silent worship, we dwell under the Holy anoint- 
ing, and feel Christ to be our Shepherd. Here the best 
of teaciiers ministers to the several conditions of his flock, 
and the soul receives, immediately from the Divine foun- 
tain, that with which it is nourished. 

As I have travelled at times where those of other socie- 
ties have attended our meetings, and have perceived how 
little some of them know of the nature of silent worship; 
I have felt tender desires in my heart that we, who often 
sit silent in our meetings, may live answerable to the na- 
ture of an inward fellowship with God, that no stumbling- 
block through us may be laid in their way. 

Such is the load of unnecessary expense which attends 
what is called Divine service in many places, and so much 
are the minds of many people employed in outward forms 
and ceremonies, that the introduction of an inward, silent 
worship in this nation, hath appeared to me to be a precious 
opening. 

Within the last four hundred years, many pious people 
have been deeply exercised in soul on account of the su- 

* Chapter 2nd and 3rd " On Trading in Superfluities," and " On a 
Sailor's life," are omitted, being principally a repetition of the sentiments 
which have already appeared in the journal. See pages 139, 140, 152, 
&c. 

23* 



270 

perstition which prevailed among the professed followers of 
Christ; and in support of their testimony against oppressive 
idolatry, have finished their course in the flames. It ap- 
pears by the history of the reformation, that through the 
faithfulness of the martyrs, the understandings of many 
were gradually opened, and the minds of people, from age 
to age, were prepared for a real spiritual worship. 

My mind is often affected with a sense of the condition 
of those people who, in different ages, have meekly and 
patiently followed Christ through great afflictions: and 
while I behold the several steps of reformation, and that 
clearness to which, through Divine goodness, it hath been 
brought by our ancestors; I feel tender desires that we, 
who sometimes meet in silence, may never, by our con- 
duct, lay stumbling-blocks in the way of others, and hinder 
the progress of reformation in the world. 

It was a complaint against some who were called the 
Lord's people, that they brought polluted bread to his 
altar, and said the table of the Lord was contemptible. 
In real silent worship, the soul feeds on that which is divine; 
but we cannot partake of the table of the Lord, and that 
table which is prepared by the god of this world. If 
Christ is our shepherd, and feedeth us, and we are faithful 
in following Him, our lives will have an inviting language, 
and the table of the Lord will not be polUued. 



A2C 



EPISTLE 



TO THE 



QUARTERLY AND MOxNTHLY MEETINGS 

OF FRIENDS. 



Beloved Friends, 

Feeling at this tinne a renewed concern, that the pure 
principle of light and life, and the righteous fruits thereof, 
nfiay spread and prevail among niankind, there is an engage- 
ment on my heart to labor with my brethren in religious 
profession, that none of us may be a stumbling-block in 
the way of others; but may so walk, that our conduct may 
reach the pure witness in the hearts of such as are not in 
profession with us. 

And, dear friends, while we publicly own that the Holy 
Spirit is our leader, the profession is in itself weighty, and 
the weightiness thereof increaseth in proportion as we are 
noted among the professors of truth; and are active in 
dealins: with such as walk disorderly. 

Many under our profession, for want of due attention, 
and a perfect resignation to this Divine Teacher, have in 
some things manifested a deviation from the purity of our 
religious principles, and these deviations having crept in 
among us by little and little, and increasing from less to 
greater, have been so far unnoticed-, that some living in 
them have been active in putting discipline in practice^ 



272 

with relation to others, whose conduct hath appeared more 
dishonorable in the world. 

Now as my mind hath been exercised before the Lord, 
I have seen that the discipline of the church of Christ 
standeth in that which is pure; that it is the wisdom from 
above which gives authority to discipline; and that the 
weightiness thereof standeth not in any outward circum- 
stances, but in the authority of Christ who is the author of 
it; and when any walk after the flesh, and not according to 
the purity of truth, and at tlie same time are active in put- 
ting discipline in practice, a veil is gradually drawn over 
the purity of discipline, and over that holiness of life, 
which Christ leads those into, " in whom the love of God 
is verily perfected." 1 John ii. 5. 

When we labor in true love with offenders, and they re- 
main obstinate, it is sometimes necessary to proceed as far 
as our Lord directed, " Let him be unto thee as an heathen 
man, and a publican." Matt, xviii. 17. Now when such 
are disowned, and they who act therein feel Christ made 
unto them wisdom, and are preserved in his meek, restor- 
ing spirit, there is no just cause of offence ministered to 
any; but when those who are active in dealing witli offen- 
ders, indulge them.selves in things which are contrary to 
the purity of iruth, and yet judge others whose conduct ap- 
pears more dishonorable than theirs, here the pure authori- 
ty of discipline ceaseth as to such offenders, and a tempta- 
tion is laid in their way to wrangle and contend. — " Judge 
not," said our Lord, " that ye be not judged." Now this 
forbidding alludes to man's judgment, and points out the 
necessity of our humbly attending to that sanctifying pow- 
er, under which the faithful experience the Lord to be 
^' a spirit of judgment to them." Isaiah xxviii. 6. And 
as we feel his Holy Spirit to mortify the deeds of the body 
in us, and can say, " it is no more I that live, but Christ 
that liveth in me," right judgment is known. 

While Divine love prevails in our hearts, and self in us 
is brought under judgment, a preparation is felt to labor in 
a right manner with offenders; but if we abide not in this 
love, our outward performance in dealing with others, de- 



273 

generates into formality; for '' this is the love of God, that 
we keep his commandments." 1 John v. 3. 

How weighty are those instructions of our Redeemer, 
concerning religious duties, in which He points out, that 
ihey who pray, should be so obedient to the teachings of 
the Holy Spirit, that humbly confiding in his help, they 
may say, '' Thy name O Father be hallowed! Thy king- 
dom come; thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven." 
' — In this awful state of mind is felt that worship which 
stands in doing the will of God, on earth as it is done in 
Heaven, and keeping the Holy Name sacred. To take a 
holy profession upon us is awful, nor can we keep this 
Holy Nan/e sacred, but by humbly abiding under the cross 
of Christ. The apostle made a heavy complaint against 
some who profaned this Holy Name by their man^er of 
living; '•' through you," he says, "the name of God is 
blasphemed among the Gentiles." Rom. ii. 24. 

Some of our ancestors through many tribulations, v^'ere 
gathered into the state of true worshippers, and had fel- 
lowship in that which is pure; and as one was inwardly 
moved to kneel down in their assemblies, and publicly call 
on the name of the Lord, those present, in the harmony 
of united exercise, joined in the prayer. I miCntion this, 
in order that we of the present age, may look unto the 
Rock from whence we were hewn, and remember, that to 
unite in worship is a union in prayer, and that prayer ac- 
ceptable to the Father, is only in a mind truly sanctified, 
in which the sacred name is kept hcly, and the heart re- 
signed to do his will " on earth, as it is done in Heaven." 
" If ye abide in me," saith Christ, " and my words abide 
in you, ye shall ask what ye will in my name, and it shall 
be done unto you," — Now we know not what to pray for 
as we ought, but as the Holy Spirit doth open and direct 
our minds, and as we faithfully yield to its influences, our 
prayers are in the will of our Heavenly Father, who fails 
not to grant that which his own spirit, through his children, 
asketh; — thus preservation from sin is known, and the fruits 
of righteousness are brought forth by such as inwardly 
unite in prayer. 

How weighty are our solemn meetings when the name of 



274 

Christ is kept holy! How precious is that state in which 
the children of the Lord are so redeemed from the love of 
this world, that they are accepted and blessed in all that 
they do!" R. Barclay's Apology, p, 404. How neces- 
sary is it that we who profess these principles, and are out- 
wardly active in supporting them, should faithfully abide in 
Divine strength; that as He who hath called us is holy, so 
we may be holy in all manner of conversation! I Pet. 
I 15.' 

If one professing to be influenced by the spirit of Christ, 
proposeth to unite in a labor to promote righteousness in 
tl^e earth, and in time past haih manifestly deviated from 
the path of equity, to act consistently with this principle, 
his first work is to make restitution so far as he may be en- 
abled; for if he attempts to contribute towards a work, in- 
tended to promote righteousness, while it appears that he 
neglects, or refuses to act righteously himself, his conduct 
has a tendency to entangle the minds of those who are 
weak in the faith, and to draw a veil over the purity of 
righteousness, by carrying an appearance, as if that was 
righteousness which is not. 

Again, if I propose to assist in supj)orting those doc- 
trines, wherein that purity of life is held forth, in v^'hich 
customs proceeding from the spirit of this world, have no 
place; and at the same time, strengthen others in those 
customs by my example; the first step, it> an orderly pro- 
ceeding, is to cease from those customs myself, and after- 
wards to labor, as I may be enabled, to promote the like 
disposition and conduct in others. 

To be convinced of the pure principle of truth, and dili- 
gently exercised in walking answerable thereto, is necessa- 
ry, before I can consistently recommend this principle to 
others. 1 often feel a labor in spirit, that we, who are 
active members in religious society, may experience in our- 
selves the truth of those expressions of the Holy One — 
" I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me." Lev. x. 
3. In this case, my mind hath been often exercised when 
alone, for many years; and in the renewingsof Divine love, 
a tender care hath been incited in me, that we who pro- 
fess the inward principle of light to be our teacher, may 



275 

be a family united in that purity of worship, which com- 
prehends a holy life, and ministers instuction to others. 

My mind is often drawn towards children in the truth, 
who having a small share of the things of this life, and 
coming to have families, may be inwardly exercised before 
the Lord, to support them in a way agreeable to the puritj 
of truth, in which they may feel his blessing upon them in 
their labors; the thouglits of such being entangled with cus- 
toms contrary to pure wisdom, conveyed to them through 
our hands, doth often very tenderly and movingly affect 
my heart; and when I look towards and think on the suc- 
ceeding generation, fervent desires ar raised in me, that 
we, by yielding to that Holy Spirit which leads into all 
truth, may not do the work of the Lord deceitfully, may 
not live contrary to the purity of the Divine principle we 
profess; but that as faitliful laborers in our age, we may be 
instrumental in removing stumbling-blocks out of the way 
of those who may succeed us. 

So great was the love of Christ, that He gave himself 
for the church, that He might sanctify and cleanse it, that 
it should be holy, and without blemish, " not having spot 
or wrinkle, or any such thing." Eph. v. 27. And when 
any take the name of Christ upon them, profess to be mem- 
bers of his church, and led by his Holy Spirit, and yet 
manifestly deviate from the purity of truth, they act against 
his gracious design in giving himself for them and minister 
cause for the continuance of his afflictions, viz. in his body, 
the church. 

Christ suffered afflictions in a body of flesh prepared by 
the Father; but the afflictions of his mystical body are yet 
unfinished; for they who are baptized into Christ are bap- 
tized into his death. And as we humbly abide under his 
sanctifying power, and are brought forth into newness of 
life, we feel Christ to live in us, who being the same yes- 
terday, to-day, and for ever, and always at unity with him- 
self, his spirit, in the hearts of his people, leads to an in- 
ward exercise for the salvation of mankind, and w^hen un- 
der a travail of spirit, we behold a visited people entangled 
by the spirit of this world, with its wickedness and cus- 
toms, and thereby rendered incapable of being faithful ex- 



276 

amples to others, sorrow and heaviness, under a sense of 
these things, are often experienced ; and thus, in some 
measure, is filled up that which remains of the afflictions 
of Christ. 

Our blessed Saviour, speaking concerning gifts offered in 
Divine service, says, " If lliou bring thy gift to the altar, 
and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against 
ihee, leave there tliy gift before the aliar, and go thy wa}'; 
first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer 
thy gift." Matt. v. 23, 24. Now there is no true unity, 
but in that wherein the Fatlier and Son are united; nor 
can there be a perfect reconciliation, but in ceasing from 
that which ministers cause for the continuation of the afflic- 
tions of Christ; and if any, professing to bring their gift 
to the altar, remember the customary contradict-on which 
some of their fruits bear to pure, spiritual worship, it ap- 
pears necessary to lay to heart this command, *' leave thy 
gift before the altar." 

Christ graciously calls his people brethen; '' whosoever 
shall do the will of God, the same is my broiher." Mark 
i.i. 35. Now, if we walk contrary to the truth as it is in 
Jesus, while we continue to profess it, we offend against 
Christ; and if, under this offence, we bring our gift to the 
altar, our Redeemer doth not direct us to lake back our 
gift, he doth nol discourage our proceeding in a good work; 
but graciously points out the necessary m-eans by which 
the gift may be rendered acceptable, *' leave," saith he, 
*' thy gift before the altar, and go thy way, first be recon- 
ciled to thy brother;" cease from lliat whicli grieves the 
Holy S[:>irit, cease from that which is against the truth as 
i: is in Jesus, and then come and ofler thy gift. 

1 feel while I am writing, a tenderness to those who, 
through Divine favor, are })reserved in a lively sense of 
the stale of the churches, and at times may be under dis- 
couragements with regard to proceeding in that pure way 
wi)ich Christ, by his Holy Spirit, leads into. The depth 
of disorder and weakness which so much prevails, being 
opened, doublings are apt to arise, as to the possibility of 
proceeding as an assembly of the Lord's people, in the 
pure counsel of truth ; and 1 therefore feel a concern to 



277 

express, in uprightness, that which hath been opened in 
my mind, under the jiower of the cross of Christ, relating 
to a visible gathered church, whose members are guided 
by the Holy Spirit. 

The Church is called the body of Christ, Col. i. 24. 

Christ is called the head of the church, Eph. i. 22. 

The church is called the pillar and the ground of the 
truth, 1 Tim. iii. 15. 

Thus, the church hath a name that is sacred, and the 
necessity of keeping this name holy, appears evident; for 
when a number of people unite in a profession of being led 
by tlie spirit of Christ, and publish their principles to the 
world, the acts and proceedings of that people may, in 
some measure, be considered such as Christ is the author 
of. 

Now while we stand in this station, if the pure light of 
life is not followed and regarded in our proceedings, we are 
in the way of profaning the Holy Name, and of going back 
towards that wilderness of sufferings and persecution, out 
of which, through the tender mercies of God, a church 
hath been gathered. Christ liveth in sanctified vessels, 
Gal. ii. 20. and when his Holy Name is profaned, and the 
pure gospel light eclipsed, through the unfaithfulness of any 
who, by their station, appear to be standard-bearers under 
the Prince of Peace, the living members in the body of 
Christ, in beholding these things, in some degree experi- 
ence the fellowship of his sufferings; and as the wisdom of 
the world more and more takes place in conducting the af- 
fairs of this visible gathered church, and the pure leadings 
of the Holy Spirit are less waited for and followed, the 
true suffering seed is more and more oppressed. 

My mind is often affected with a sense of the condition 
of sincere-hearted people, in some kingdoms where libera 
ty of conscience is not allowed, many of whom being bur'» 
dened in their minds with prevailing superstition join* 
ed with oppressions, are often under sorrow; and when 
such have attended to that pure light which haih in som© 
degree opened their understandings, and, lor their faithfuU 
ness thereto, have been brought to examination and trial, 
how heavy are the persecutions which, in divers parts of 

24 



278 

the world are exercised upon them! How mighty, as (o 
the outward, is that power, by which they are borne down 
and oppressed! How deeply affecting is the condition of 
many upright-hearted people who are taken into the Papal 
inquisition! What lamentable cruelties, in deep vaults, in 
a private way, are exercised on many of them! and how 
lingering is that death, by a small slow fire, which they have 
frequently endured who have been faithful to the end! 

How many tender-spirited Protestants have been sen- 
tenced to spend the remainder of their lives in a galley 
chained to oars, under hard-hearted masters, while their 
young children are placed out for education, and taught 
principles so contrary to the consciences of the parents, 
that, by dissenting from them, they have hazarded their lib- 
erty, lives, and all that was dear to them of the things of 
this world! 

There have been, in times past, severe persecutions un- 
der the English government, and many sincere-hearted 
people have suffered death for the testimony of a good 
conscience, whose faithfulness hath ministered encourage- 
ments to others, and hath been a blessing to many who 
have succeeded them. Thus, from age to age, the dark- 
ness being more and more removed, through the tender 
mercies of God, a channel hath at length been opened for 
the exercise of the pure gift of the gospel ministry, with- 
out interruption from outward power, a work which is rare 
and unknown in many parts of the world. 

As these things are often fresh in my mind, and this 
great work of God going on in the earth has been open be- 
fore me, that liberty of conscience with which we are favored 
hath not appeared as a light matter. A trust is committed 
to us, a great and weighty trust, to which our deligent atten- 
tion is necessary. Whenever the active members of this 
visible gathered church use themselves to that which is con- 
trary to the purity of our principles, it appears to be a breach 
of this trust, and one step back towards the wilderness; one 
step towards undoing what God, in infinite love, hath done 
through his faithful servants, in a work of several ages, and 
2S like laying the foundation for future sufferings. 

I feel a living invitation in my mind to such as are ac- 
tive in our religio»« society, that we may lay this matter to 



279 

heart, and consider that we stand in a state of outward li- 
berty, under the free exercise of our conscience towards 
God, obtained through the great and manifold afflictions 
of those who lived before us. Gratitude is due from us 
to our Heavenly Father, and justice to our posterity. 
Can our hearts endure, or our hands be strong, if we desert 
a cause so precious, if we turn aside from a work under 
which so many have patiently labored? 

May the deep sufferings of our Saviour be so dear to us, 
that we may never trample under foot the adorable Son of 
God,- nor count the blood of the covenant unholy. May 
the faithfulness of the martyrs when the prospect of death 
by fire was before them, and the patient constant sufferings 
of the upright-hearted servants of God, in later ages, be 
revived in our minds; and may we so follow on to know 
the Lord, that neither the faithful in this age, nor those in 
ages to come, may ever be brought under suffering, through 
our sliding oack from the work of reformation in the world. 

While the active members in the church stand upright, 
and the affairs thereof are carried on, under the leadings of 
the Holy Spirit, although disorders may arise among us, 
and cause many exercises to those who feel the care of the 
churches upon them; yet, while these continue under the 
wei2;ht of the work, and labor in the meekness of wisdom 
for the help of others-, the name of Christ, in the visible 
gathered church, will be kept sacred; but, while they who 
are active in the affairs of this church continue in a manifest 
opposition to the purity of our principles, this, as the 
prophet expresseth it, is " as when a standard-bearer faint- 
eth ": Isaiah, x. 18. and thus tlie w^ay opens to great and 
prevailing degeneracy, and to sufferings, as for such through 
the power of Divine love, are separated to the gospel of 
Christ, and cannot unite with any thing in opposition to its 
purity. 

The necessity of an inward stillness hath, under these 
exercises, appeared clear to my mind, In true silence 
strength is renewed, and the mind is weaned from all 
things, but as they may be enjoyed in the Divine will; and 
a lowliness in outward living, opposite to worldly honor, 
becomes truly acceptable to us. In the desire after out- 



280 

ward gain, the mind is prevented from a perfect attention 
to the voice of Christ ; yet being weaned from all things, 
except as they may be enjoyed in the Divine will, tlie pure 
light shines into the soul. Where the fruits of the spirit 
which is of this world, are brought forth by many who pro- 
fess to be led by the spirit of truth, and cloudiness is felt 
to be gathering over the visible gathered church, the sin- 
cere in heart, who abide in true stillness, and are exercised 
therein before the Lord for his name's sake, have know- 
ledge of Christ in the fellowship of his suffering's; and in- 
ward thankfulness is felt at tinies, that through Divine love, 
our own wisdom is cast out, and that forward, active part 
in us is subjected, which would rise and do something in 
the Church, without the pure leadings of the Spirit of 
Christ. 

While aught remains in us contrary to a perfect resigna- 
tion of our wills, it is like a seal to a book, wherein is writ- 
ten " that good and acceptable and perfect will of God" 
concerning us. Rom. xii. 2. But when our minds en- 
tirely yield to Christ, that silence is known which follow- 
eth the opening of the last of ihe seals. Rev. viii. 1. In 
this silence, we learn to abide in the Divine will, and there 
feel, that we have no cause to promote except that alone in 
which the light of life directs us in our proceedings ; and 
that the only way to be useful in the church of Christ, is 
to abide faithfully under the leadings of his Holy Spirit in 
all cases, and being preserved thereby in purity of heart 
and holiness of conversation, a testimony to the purity of 
his government may be held forth through us to others. 

As my mind hath been thus exercised, I have seen, that 
to be active and busy in the Church, without the leading 
of the Holy Spirit, is not only unprofitable, but tends to 
increase dimness; and when way is not open to proceed in 
the light of truth, a stop is felt by those who humbly attend 
to the Divine Leader, a stop which, in relation to good 
order, is of the greatest consequence to be observed. 
Thus Robert Barclay, in his treatise on discipline, (see 
pages 65, 68, 84.): " That the judgment or conclusion of 
the church or congregation is no further effectual, as to the 
true end and design thereofj but as such judgment or con- 



281 

elusion proceeds from the Spirit of God, operating on their 
minds who are sanctified in Christ Jesus." 

Now in this stop I have learned the necessity of waiting 
on the Lord in humility, that the works of all may be 
brought to light, and those to judgment which are wrought 
in the wisdom of this world; and 1 have also seen, that in 
a mind thorouglily subjected to the power of the cross, 
there is a savor of life to be felt, which evidently tends 
to gather souls to God, while the greatest works in the visi- 
ble gatliered church, brought forth in man's wisdom, are 
unf)rofitable. 

When people are divinely gathered into a holy fellow- 
ship, and faithfully abide under the influence of that Spirit 
which leads into all truth, " They are the light of the 
world." Matt, v.- 14. Now, holding this profession hath 
appeared to me weighty, even beyond what I can fully ex- 
press, and is what our blessed Lord seemed to have in view, 
when he proposed the necessity of counting the cost be- 
fore we begin to build. 

I trust there are many who feel at times, under Divine 
visitation, an inward inquiry after God; and, when such in 
the simplicity of their hearts, observe the lives of a people 
who profess to walk by the leadings of his Spirit, of what 
great concernment is it that our lights shine clear, that no- 
thing in our conduct carry a contradiction to the truth as it 
is in Jesus, or be a means of profaning his Holy Name, 
and be a stumbling-block in the way of those sincere in- 
quirers. 

When such seekers as are weary with empty forms, 
look towards uniting with us as a society, and behold active 
members among us depart, in their customary way of liv- 
ing,- from that purity of life which, under humbling exer- 
cises, hath been opened before them as the way of the 
Lord's people, how mournful and discouraging is the pros- 
pect! and how strongly doth such unfaithfulness operate 
against the spreading of the peaceable, harmonious princi- 
ple, and testimony of truth among mankind! 

In entering into that life which is hid with Christ in God^- 
we behold bis peaceable government, where the whole- 
family being governed by the same spirit, and "doing tQ 

24* 



282 

others as we would they should do unto us," grow up as 
good fruit from a good tree. The peace, quietness, and 
harmonious walking in this government, is beheld with 
humble reverence to Him who is the author of it; and in 
partaking of the Spirit of Christ, we partake of that which 
labors and suffers for the increase of this peaceable gov- 
ernment, among the inhabitants of the world. 1 have felt 
a labor of long continuance, that we who profess this 
peaceable principle, may be faithful standard bearers under 
the Prince of Peace; and that nothing of a defiling nature, 
tending to discord and wars, may remain among us. May 
each of us query with ourselves, have the treasures I pos- 
sess, been gathered in that wisdom which is from above, 
so far as hath appeared to me? Have none of my fellow- 
creatures an equitable right to any part which is called 
mine? Have the gifts and possessions received by me 
from others, been conveyed in a way free from all unright- 
eousness, so far as T know? 

The principle of peace, in which our trust is only in the 
Lord, and our minds are weaned from a dependence on 
the strength of arjnies, appears to me very precious; and 
I often feel strong de'sires, that we who profess this princi- 
ple, may so walk as not to give just cause for any of our 
lellow-creatures to be offended at us; that our lives may 
evidently manifest, that we are redeemed from that spirit 
in which wars are. Our blessed Saviour, in pointing out 
the danger of so leaning on man as to neglect the leadings 
of his Holy Spirit, said, '' Call no man your father upon 
the earth; for one is your Father which is in heaven." 
Matt, xxiii. 9. When the wisdom from above is faithfully 
followed, and we are therein intrusted with substance, it is 
a treasure committed to our care in the nature of an in- 
heritance from Him who formed and supports the world. 
Now, in this condition, the true enjoyment of the good 
things of this life is understood, and that blessing is felt in 
which is real safety. This is what I apprehend our bless- 
ed Lord had in view, when he s^id, '^ Blessed are the 
meek, for they shall inherit the earth." 

Selfish worldly-minded men may hold lands in the selfish 
spirit; and depending on the strength of outward power, 



283 

be perplexed with secret uneasiness, lest the injured should 
sonaetime overpower tbeu), and that measure should be 
meted to them which they measure to others. Thus, sel- 
fish men may possess the earth ; but it is the meek who 
inherit it, and enjoy it as an inheritance from their Heav- 
enly Failier, free from all the defilements and perplexities 
of unrighteousness. 

When proceedings have been in that wisdom w^hich iis 
from beneath, and inequitable gain halh been gathered by 
a man, and left as a gift to his children, who, entangled by 
the same worldly spirit, have not attained to that clearness 
of light in which the channels of righteousness are opened, 
and justice done to those who remain silent under injuries; 
it hath under humbling exercise of mind, appeared to me, 
that the sins of the fathers are embraced by the children, 
and become their sins; and thus, in the days of tribulation, 
the iniquities of the fathers are visited upon these children, 
who take hold of the unrighteousness of their fathers, and 
live in that spirit in which those iniquities were committed. 
To this agreeth the prophecy of Moses; concerning a re- 
bellious people: '' They that are left of you sliall pine 
avvay in their iniquity in your enemies' lands; and also in 
the iniquities of their fathers shall they pine away with 
them." Lev. xxvi. 39. Our blessed Lord, in beholding 
the hardness of heart in that generation, and feeling in him- 
self, that they lived in the same spirit in which the pro- 
phets had been persecuted unto death, signified, "that the 
blood of all the prophets which was shed from the founda- 
tion of the world, should be required of that generation, 
from the blood of Abel, unto the blood of Zacharias, 
which perished between the altar and the temple." Luke 
xi. 50, 5L 

Tender compassion fills my heart towards my fellow- 
creatures, estranged from the harmonious government of 
the Prince of Peace, and a labor attends me that they may 
be gathered to this peaceable habitation. In being inward- 
ly prepared to suffer adversity for Christ's sake, and wean- 
ed from a dependance on the arm of flesh, we feel that 
there is a rest for the people of God, and that it stands in 
our perfect resignation to his Holy will. In this condition. 



284 

all our wants and desires are bounded by pure wisdom, 
and our minds are wholly attentive to the counsel of Christ, 
inwardly communicated. This appears to n»e a habitation 
of safety for the Lord's people, in timesof outward com- 
motion and trouble ; and desires from tlie fountain of pure 
love are opened in me, to invite my brethren and fellow- 
creatures to feel for, and seek after that which gathers the 
mind into it. 

John Woolman. 

Mount Holly, New Jersey, 4th Month, 1772. 



WORD OF REMEMBRANCE 

AND 

CAUTION TO THE RICH. 

[First Printed in 1793.] 



SEC. I. 

Wealth desired for its own sake, obstructs the increase 
of virtue; and large possessions in the hands of selfish 
men, have a had tendency; for by their means too small a 
number of people are employed in useful things; and some 
of them are necessitated to labor too hard, while others 
would want business to earn tlieir bread, were not employ- 
ments invented which, having no real usefulness, serve only 
to please the vain mind. 

Rents on lands are often so high, that persons of but 
small substance are straitened in taking farms; and while 
tenants are healthy and prosperous in business, they often 
find occasion to labor harder than was intended by our 
gracious Creator. Oxen and horses are often seen at work, 
when through heat and too much labor, their eyes and the 
motions of their bodies, manifest that they are oppressed. 
Their loads in waggons are frequently so heavy, that when 
weary with haling them far, their drivers find occasion in 
going up hills, or through mire to get them forward by 
whipping. Many poor people are so thronged in their 
business, that it is difficult for them to provide slielter for 
their cattle against the storms. These things are common 



286 

when in health; but through sickness and inability to labor, 
through loss of cattle, and miscarriage in business, many 
are so straitened, that much of their increase goes to pay 
rent, and they have not wherewith to buy what they re- 
quire. 

Hence one poor woman, in providing for her family, 
and attending the sick, does as much business as would for 
the time, be suitable employment for two or three; and 
honest persons are often straitened to give their children 
suitable learning. The money which the wealthy receive 
from the poor, who do more than a proper share of busi- 
ness in raising it, is frequently paid to other poor people, 
for doing business which is foreign to the true use of things. 
Men who have large estates, and live in the spirit of charity; 
who carefully inspect the circumstances of those who oc- 
cupy their estates; and regardless of the customs of the 
limes, regulate their demands agreeably to universal love, 
being righteous on principle, do good to the poor without 
placing it to an act of bounty. Their example in avoiding 
superfluities, tends to excite moderation in others; their 
uprightness in not exacting what the laws and customs 
would support them in, tends to open the channel to mod- 
erate labor in useful affairs, and to discourage those bran- 
ches of business which have not their foundation in true 
wisdom. 

To be busied in that which is but vanity, and serves 
only to please the insatiable mind, tends to an alliance 
with thos-e wtio promote that vanity, and is a snare in 
which many poor tradesmen are entangled. To be em- 
ployed in things connected with virtue, is most agieeable 
with the character and inclinations of an honest man. 

While industrious frugal people are borne down with 
poverty, and oppressed with too much labor in useful 
things, the way to apply money without promoting pride 
and vanity, remains open to such as truly simpathiz^ with 
them, in their various difficulties. 

SEC. II. 
The Creator of the earth is the owner of it: He gave 



287 

us being thereon, and our nature requires nourishment, 
from the produce of it. He is kind and nrierciful to his 
creatures; and while they live answerably to the design of 
their creation, they are so far entitled to convenient sub- 
sistence, that we may not justly deprive them of it. By 
the agreements and contracts of our predecessors, and by 
our own doings, some enjoy a much greater share of this 
world than others; and while those possessions are faith- 
fully improved for the good of the whole, it agrees with 
equity: But he who, with a view to self exaltation, causeth 
some to labor immoderately, and with the profits arising 
therefrom employs others in the luxuries of life, acts con- 
trary to the gracious designs of Him who is the owner of 
the earth; nor can any possessions, either acquired or de- 
rived from ancestors, justify such conduct. Goodness re- 
mains to be goodness, and the direction of pure wisdom is 
obligatory on all reasonable creatures. 

Though the poor occupy our estates by a bargain, to 
which they in their poor circumstances, agree; and we may 
ask even less than a punctual fulfilling of their agreement; 
yet if our views are to lay up riches, or to live in confor- 
mity to customs which have not their foundation in the 
truth, and our demands are such as require from them 
greater toil or application to business than is consistent with 
pure love, we invade their rights as inhabitants of a world, 
of which a good and gracious God is the proprietor, and 
under whom we are tenants. 

Were all superfluities, and the desire of outward great- 
ness laid aside, and the right use of things universally at- 
tended to, such a number of people might be employed in 
things useful, as that moderate labor with the blessing of 
Heaven, would answer all good purposes, and a sufficient 
number would have time to attend to the proper affairs of 
civil society. 



SEC. III. 

While our spirits are lively, we go cheerfully through 
business; either too much or loo little action is tiresome; 



288 

but a right portion is healthful to the body, and agreeable 
to an honest mind. 

Men who have great estates stand in a place of trust; 
and to have it in their power to live without difficulty in 
that manner which occasions much labor, and at the same 
time to confine themselves to that use of things prescribed 
by our Redeemer, and confirmed by his example, and the 
exan)ples of many who lived in the early age of the Chris- 
tian church, that they may more extensively relieve objects 
of charity, requires close attention to Divine love. 

Our gracious Creator cares and provides for all his crea- 
tures: his tender mercies are over all his works, and so 
far as true love influences our minds, so far we become in- 
terested in his workmanship; and feel a desire to make use 
of every opportunity to lessen the distresses of the afflict- 
ed, and to increase the happiness of the creation. Here 
we have a prospect of one common interest from which 
our own is inseparable, so that to turn all we possess into 
the channel of universal love, becomes the business of our 
lives. 

Men of large estates whose hearts are thus enlarged, are 
like fathers to the poor ; and in looking over their brethren 
in distressed ciicumstances, and considering their own more 
easy condition, they find a field for humble meditation, and 
feel the strength of the obligations they are under, to be 
kind and tender-hearted towards them. Poor men eased 
of their burdens, and released from too close an application 
to business, are enabled to hire assistance, to provide well 
for their cattle, and to find time to perforn) those duties 
among their neighbors, which belong to a well-guided social 
life. When the latter reflect on the opportunity such had 
to oppress them, and consider the goodness of their con- 
duct, they behold it lovely and consistent with brotheihood; 
and as the man whose mind is conformed to universal love, 
hath his trust settled in God, and finds a firm foundation in 
any changes or revolutions that happen among men, so also 
the goodness of his conduct tends to spread a kind benev- 
lent disposition in the world. 



289 



SEC. IV, 

Our blessed Redeemer, m directing us bow to conduct 
ourselves one towards another, appeals to our own feelings; 
*' Whatsoever ye would that nficn should do to you, do ye 
even so to them," Now when some who have n'ever ex- 
perienced hard labor themselves, live in fulness on the la- 
bor of others, there is often a danger of their not having a 
right feeling of the laborers' condition, and of being there- 
by disqualified to judge candidly in their case ; not know- 
ing what they theniselves would desire, were they to labor' 
bard from one year to another, to raise the necessaries of 
life, and pay high rent besides. It is good for those who 
live in fulness, to cuhivate tenderness of heart, and to im- 
prove every opportunity of being acquainted with the hard- 
ships and fatigues of those who labor for their living; and 
thus to think seriously whh themselves; Am I influenced 
by true charity in fixing all my demands? Have T no de^ 
sire to support myself in expensive customs, because my 
acquaintances live in such customs ? 

if a wealthy man on serious reflection, finds a witness in 
his own conscience, that he indulges himself in some expen- 
sive customs, which might be omitted, consistently with the 
true design of living, and which, w^ere he to change places 
with those who occupy his estate, he would desire to be 
discontinued by them; whoever is thus awakened will nec- 
essarily find the injunction binding, "Do ye even so to 
them." Divine Love imposeth no rigorous or unreasona- 
ble commands ; but graciously points out the spirit of 
brotherhood, and the way to happiness ; in attaining whichj 
It is necessary that we relinquish all that is selfish. 



SEC. V. 

To enforce the duty of tenderness to the poor, the in- 
spired law-giver referred the children of Israel to their 

35 



290 

own experience; " Ye know the heart of a stranger, see- 
ing ye were strangers in the land of Egypt." He who 
hath been a stranger among unkind people, or under the 
government of those who were hard-hearted, has experi- 
enced this feeling; but a person who hath never felt the 
weight of misapplied power, comes not to this knowledge 
but by an inward tenderness, in which the heart is prepared 
to sympathize with others. 

Let us reflect on the condition of a poor innocent man, on 
whom the ricli man, from a desire after wealth and luxuries, 
lays heavy burdens: when this laborer looks over the 
cause of his heavy toil, and considers that it is laid on him 
to support that which hatli no foundation in pure wisdom, 
we may well suppose that an uneasiness ariseth in his mind 
towards one who might without any inconvenience, deal more 
favorably with him. When he considers that by his industry 
his fellow-creature is benefited, and sees that this wealthy 
man is not satisfied with being supported in a plain way, but to 
gratify a desire of conforming to wrong customs, increas- 
eth to an extreme the labors of those who occupy his es- 
tate; we may reasonably judge that he will think himself 
unkindly used. When he considers that the proceedings 
of the wealthy are agreeable to the customs of ihe times, 
and sees no means of redress in this world; how will the 
sighings of this innocent person ascend to the throne of that 
great and good Being who created all, and who hath a con- 
stant care over his creatures ! Me who toils year after 
year to furnish others with wealth and superfluities, until by 
overmuch labor he is wearied and oppressed, understands 
the meaning of that language; '' Ye know the heart of a 
stranger, seeing ye were strangers in the land of Egypt." 

Many at this day, who know not the heart of a stranger, 
indulge themselves in ways of life, which occasion more 
labor than Infinite goodness intends for man; and yet com- 
passionate the distresses of such as come directly under 
their observation; were these to change circumstances 
awhile with their laborers, were they to pass regularly 
through the means of knowing the heart of a stranger, and 
come to a feeling knowledge of the straits and hardships 
which many poor innocent people pass through, in obscure 



291 

life; were these who now fare sumptuously every day, to 
act the other part of the scene, until seven times had pass- 
ed over them, and return again to their former states; I 
believe many of them would embrace a less expensive 
life; and would lighten the heavy burdens of some who 
now labor out of their sight, and who pass through straits 
with which they are but little acquainted. To see their 
fellow-creatures under difficulties, to which they are in no 
degree accessary, tends to awaken tenderness in the minds 
of all reasonable people; but if we consider the condition 
of those who are depressed in answering our demands, 
who labor for us out of our sight, while we pass our time 
in fulness; and consider also, that much less than we de- 
mand would supply us with things really useful; what heart 
will not relent, or what reasonable man can refrain from 
mitigating that grief, of which he himself is the cause, when 
he may do so without inconvenience? 



SEC. VI. 

If more men were usefully employed, and fewer ate 
bread as a reward for doing that which is not useful, food 
and raiment would, on a reasonable estimate, be more in 
proportion to labor, than it is at present ; for if four men 
working eight hours per day, can do a portion of labor in 
a certain number of days; then five men equally capable, 
may do the same business in the same time, by working 
only six hours and twenty-four minutes per day. In pro- 
ceeding agreeably to sound wisdom, a small portion of 
daily labor might suffice, to keep a proper stream gently 
circulating through all the channels of society; and this 
portion of labor might be so divided, and taken in the most 
advantageous parts of the day, that people would not have 
that plea for the use of strong liquors, which they have at 
present. The quantity of spirituous liquors imported and 
made in our country is great; nor can so many thousand 
hogsheads of it be drunk every year, without having a power- 
ful effisct on our manners. 

People spent with much labor, often take strong liquor 



202 

(o revive ihein. The portion of (he necessaries of life is 
such, that those who support their families by day labor, 
find occasion to labor hard, and many of them think strong 
drink a necessary part of their entertainment. 

When people are spent with action, and take these 
liquors not only as a refreshment from past labors, but also 
to enable them to go on, without giving sufficient lime to 
recruit by resting; it gradually turns them from that cahn- 
ness of thought, which attends those who apply their hearts 
to true wisdom. That the spirits being scattered by 
too much bodily motion, and again revived by strong^ 
drink, makes a person luifit for Divine meditation, I sup- 
pose will not be denied; and as multitudes of people are 
in this practice, who do not take so much as to hinder 
them from managing their affairs, this custom is strongly 
supported; but as, through Divine goodness, I have found 
that there is a more quiet, calm, and happy way intended 
for us to walk in, I am engaged to express what I feel in 
my heart concerning it. As cherishing the spirit of love 
and meekness belongs to the family of Jesus Christ; so to 
avoid those things which are known to work against it is 
an indispensable duty. Every degree of luxury, of what 
kind soever, and every demand for money inconsistent with 
Divine order, hath some connexion with unnecessary labor. 
By too much labor the spirits are exhausted, and nature 
craves help from strong drink; and the frequent use of strong 
drink works in opposition to the celestial influence on the 
mind. There is in the nature of people, some degree of 
likeness with that food and air, to which they have been 
accustomed irom their youth; this frequently appears in 
those who, by a separation from their native air and usual 
diet, grow weak and unheahhy for want of them; nor is it 
reasonable to suppose, that so many thousand hogsheads of 
fiery liquor can be drunk every year, and the practice con- 
tinued from age to a2;e, without altering in some degree the 
natures of men, and rendering their minds less apt to re- 
ceive the pure truth in the )ove of it. 

As many wlio manifest some regard to piety, in degree 
conform to those ways of living, and of collecting wealth 
which increase labor beyond the bounds fixed by Divine 



293 ' 

wisdom; my desire is that ihey may so consider the con- 
nexion of tilings, as to take heed, lest, by exacting of poor 
men more than is consistent with universal ri2;hteousness, 
they promote that by their conduct which in word they 
speak against. To treasure up wealth for another genera- 
tion, by means of the immoderate labor of those, who in 
some measure depend upon us, is doing evil at present, 
without knowing that wealth, thus gathered, may not be 
applied to evil purposes when we are gone. To labor 
hard, or cause others to do so, that we may live conforma- 
bly to customs which Christ our Redeemer discountenanc- 
ed by his example, in the dayo of his flesh, and which are 
contrary to Divine order, is to m^anure a soil for propagat- 
ing an evil seed in the earth. They who enter deeply into 
these considerations, and live under the weight of them, 
will feel these things so heavy, and their ill efiects so ex- 
tensive, that the necessity of attending singly to Divine 
wisdom will be evident; and will thereby be directed in 
the right use of things, in opposition to the customs of the 
times: and will be supported to bear patiently the re- 
proaches attending singularity. To conform a little^ 
strengthens the hands of those who carry wrong customs 
to their utmost extent; and the more a person appears to 
be virtuous, and heavenly minded, the more powerfully 
does his conformity operate in favor of evil doers. Lay 
aside the profession of a pious life, and people expect 
little or no instruction from the example; but while we 
profess, in all cases, to live in constant opposition to that 
which is contrary to universal righteousness; — what ex- 
pressions are equal to the subject, or what language is suf- 
ficient to set fortli the strength of the obligations we ai^ 
under, to beware lest by our example we lead others 
astray! 



SEC. VIL 

If by our wealth we make our children great, without a 
full persuasion that we could not bestow it better, and thus 
give them power to deal hardly with others more virtuous 

25* 



294 

than they, it can after death give us no more satisfaction, 
than if by this treasure we had raised others above our 
own, and had given them power to oppress them. 

Did a man possess as much land, as would suffice for 
twenty industrious frugal people, and supposing that, being 
the lawful heir to it, he intended to give this great estate to 
his children; yet if he found on research into the title, thai 
one half of this estate was the undoubted right of a number 
of poor orphans, who as to virtue and understanding, ap- 
peared to him as hopeful as his own children; the discovery- 
would give him an opportunity to consider, whether he 
was attached to any interest distinct from the interest of 
those orphans. 

Some of us have estates sufBcient for our ciiildren, and 
as many more to live upon, if they all employed tlieir lime 
in useful business, and lived in that plainness which becomes 
the true disciples of Christ; and we have no reason to be- 
lieve that our children will be more likely to apply them to 
benevolent purposes, than would some poor children with 
whom we are acquainted; and yet, did we believe that 
after our decease tiiese estates would go equally among 
our children, and the children of the poor, it would be like- 
ly to give us uneasiness. This may shew to a thoughtful 
person, that to be redeemed from all the remains of selfish- 
ness, to have an universal regard to our fellow-creatures, 
and to love them as our Heavenly Father loves them, we 
must constantly attend to the influence of his si)irit. 

When our hearts are enlarged to contemplate the nature 
of this Divine love, we behold' it harmonious; but if we 
attentively consider that moving of selfisl)ne5S, which makes 
us uneasy at the apprehension of that which is in itself 
reasonable, and which, when separated from all previous 
conceptions and expectations, appears so, we see an incon- 
sistency in it; for the subject of such uneasiness is future, 
and will not affect our children, until we are removed into 
that state of being, in which there is no possibility of our 
taking delight in any thing contrary to the pure principle of 
universal love. 

As that natural desire of superiority in us, when given 
way to, extends to such of our favorites, as we expect 



!^95 

will succeed us; and as ihe grasping afier vveahli and power 
for them, adds greatly to the burdens of the poor, and in- 
creaseth the evil of covetousness in this age; 1 have often 
desired that, in looking towards posterity, we may renriem- 
ber the purity of that rest, which is prepared for the Lord's 
people; the impossibility of our taking pleasure in any 
thing distinguisliable from universal righteousness; and how 
vain and weak it is, to give wealth and power to those, who 
appear unlikely to apply it to the general good when we 
are gone. 

As christians, all we possess is the gift of God; and in 
the distribution of it we act as his stewards; it becomes us 
therefore to act agreeably to that Divine wisdom, which 
He graciously gives to his servants. If the steward of a 
great family, takes that with which he is intrusted, and be- 
stows it lavishly on some, to the injury of others, and to 
the damage of his employer, he degrades himself, and be- 
comes unworthy of that office. 

The true felicity -of man in this life, and in that which is 
to come, is in being inwardly united to the fountain of uni- 
versal love and bliss. When we provide for posterity, 
and make settlements which will not take effect, until after 
we are centred in another state of being; if we therein 
knowingly act contrary to universal love and rigliteousness, 
such conduct must arise from a false, selfish pleasure; and 
if, after such settlements, our wills continue to stand in op- 
position to the fountain of universal light and love; will 
there not be an impassable gulph between the soul and true 
felicity? But if after such a settlement, and when too late 
for an alteration, we attain to that purified state which our 
Redeemer prayed his Father that his people might attain 
to, of being united to the Father, and to the Son; must 
not a sincere repentance, for all things done in a will sep- 
arate from universal love, precede this inward sanctifica- 
tion? And though in such depth of repentance and recon- 
ciliation, all sins may be forgiven, can we reasonably sup- 
pose, that our partial determinations in favor of those whom 
we selfishly loved, will then afford us pleasure? 



296 



SEC. VIIL 



To labor for an establishment in Divine love, in which 
the mind is disentangled from the power of darkness, is 
the great business of man's life; the collecting of riches, 
covering the body with fine wrought, costly apparel, and 
having magnificent furniture, operate against universal love, 
and tend to feed self; so that it belongs not to the children 
of the light to desire these things. He who sent ravens to 
feed Elijah in the wilderness, and increased the poor wo- 
man's small remains of meal and oil, is now as atten- 
tive as ever to the necessities of his people. When He 
saith unto his people, '' Ye are my sons and daughters," 
no greater happiness can be desired by them, who know 
how gracious a Father He is. 

The greater part of the necessaries of life, are so far 
perishable, that each generation halh occasion to labor for 
them; and when we look towards a succeeding age, with a 
mind influenced by universal love, instead of endeavoring 
to exempt some from those cares, which necessarily relate 
to this life, and to give them power to oppress others; we 
desire that they may all be the Lord's children, and live in 
that humility and order becoming His family. Our hearts 
being thus opened and enlarged, will feel content with a 
state of things, as foreign to luxury and grandeur, as that 
which our Redeemer laid down as a pattern. 

By desiring wealth for the power and distinction it gives, 
and gathering It on this motive, a person may become rich; 
but his mind being moved by a draught distinguishable from 
the drawings of the Father, he cannot be united to the 
heavenly society, where God is the strength of their life, 
'' It is easier," saith our Saviour, " for a camel to go 
through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter 
the kingdom of God." Here, our Lord uses an instruc- 
tive similitude, for as a camel, while in that form, cannot 
pass through the eye of a needle, so a man who trusteih in 
riches, and holds them for the sake of the power and dis- 
tiuction attending them, cannot in that spirit enter into the 



297 

kingdom. Now every part of a camel may be so reduced, 
as to pass through a hole, as small as the eye of a needle; 
yet such is the bulk of the creature, and the hardness of it3 
bones and teeth, that it could not be so reduced without 
much labor; so must man cease from that spirit which 
craves riches, and be brought into another disposition, be- 
fore he inherits the kingdom, as effectually as a camel 
must be changed from the form of a camel, in passing 
through the eye of a needle. 

When our Saviour said to the rich youih, ^' Go sell what 
thou hast and give to the poor;" though undoubtedly it 
was his duty to have done so; yet to enjoin the sellino' of 
all, as a duty on every true Christian, would be to limit the 
Holy One. Obedient children, who are intrusied with 
much outward substance, wait for wisdom to dispose of it 
agreeably to His will, "in whom the fatherless find mercy." 
It may not be the duty of every one to commit at once 
their substance to other hands; but rather from time to 
time to loak round among the numerous branches of the 
great family, as the stewards of him who provides for the 
widows and fatherless; and as disciples of Christ, however 
intrusted wiih much goods, they may not conform to sumpt- 
uous or luxurious living; for as He lived in perfect plain- 
ness and simplicity, the greatest in his family, cannot by 
virtue of his station, claim a right to live in worldly gran- 
deur, without contradicting His doctrine who said, " It is 
enough for the disciple to be as his master." 

When our eyes are so single as to discern the selfish 
spirit clearly, we behold it the greatest of all tyrants. 
Many thousand innocent people, under some of the Ro- 
man emperors, being confirmed in the truth of Christ's re- 
ligion, by the powerful effects of his Holy Spirit upon 
them, and scrupling to conform to heathenish rites, were 
put to death by various kinds of cruel and lingering tor- 
ments; as is largely set forth by Eusebius. 

Now if we single out Domitian, Nero, or any other of 
the persecuting emperors, the man, though terrible in his 
liuie, will appear as a tyrant of small consequence, com- 
pared with this selfish spirit ; for though his bounds were 
large, yet a great part of the world was out of hi§ reach ; 



298 

and though he grievously afflicted the bodies of those inno- 
cent people, yet the minds of many were divinely support- 
ed in their greatest ?!gonies; and being faithful unto death, 
they were delivered from his tyranny. His reign, though 
cruel for a time, was soon over; and he, in his greatest 
pomp, appears to have been a slave to a selfish spirit. 

Thus tyranny as applied to a man, riseth up, and soon 
has an end ; but if we consider the numerous o])pressions 
in many states, and the calamities occasioned by contend- 
ing nations in various countries and ages of the world, and 
remember that selfishness hath been the original cause of 
them all; if we consider that those wlio are unredeemed 
from this selfish spirit, not only afflict others, but are afflict- 
ed themselves, and have no real quietness in this life, nor 
in futurity; but according to the sayings of Christ, have 
their portion, " Where the worm dieth not, and the fire is 
not quenched;" If we consider the havoc that is made in 
this age, and how numbers of people are hurried on, striv- 
ing to collect treasure to please that mind which wanders 
from perfect resignedness; and in that wisdom which is 
foolishness with God, are perverting the true use of things, 
laboring as in the fire, contending with one another, even 
unto blood, and exerting their power to support ways of 
living, foreign to the life of one wholly crucified to the 
world: — If we consider what great numbers of people are 
employed in j)reparing the articles of war, -and the labor 
and toil of armies, set apart for protecting their respective 
territories from invasion; and the extensive miseries which 
attend their engagements; while they who till the land, and 
are employed in other useful things in supporting them- 
selves, and those employed in military affairs, and also 
those who own the soil, have great hardships to encounter, 
through too much labor; while others, in several kingdoms, 
are busied in feicliing men to help to labor, from distant 
parts of the world, to spend the remainder of their lives in 
the uncomfortable condition of slaves; and that self is the 
bottom of these proceedings: amidst all this confusion, and 
these scenes of sorrow and distress can we remember that 
we are the disciples of the Prince of Peace, and the ex- 
ample of humility and plainness which he set for us, with- 



299 

out feeling an earnest desire lo be disentangled from every 
thing connected with selfish customs in food, in raiment, in 
houses, and all things else ? That being of Christ's fanu'ly, 
and walking as He walked, we may stand in that upright- 
ness wherein man was first made, and have no fellowship 
with those inventions, which men in their fallen wisdom 
have sought out. 



SEC. IX. 

The way of carrying on wars, common in the world is 
so far distinguishable from the purity of Christ's religion, 
that many scruple to join in them. Those who are so re- 
deemed from the love of the world, as to possess nothing 
in a selfish spirit, have their " life hid with Christ in God," 
and He preserves them in resignedness, even in times of 
commotion. 

As they possess nothing but what pertains to his family, 
anxious thoughts about wealth or dominion have little or 
nothing in them on which to work ; and they learn content- 
ment in being disposed of according to his will, who being 
omnipotent, and always mindful of his children, causeth all 
things to work for their good : but when that spirit works 
which loves riches, and in its working gathers wealth, and 
cleaves to customs which have their root in self-pleasing : 
whatever name it hath it still desires to defend the trea- 
sures thus gotten: This is like a chain in which the end 
of one link incloseth the end of another ; the rising up of 
a desire to obtain wealth is the beginning; this desire being 
cherished, moves to action ; and riches thus gotten, please 
self ; and wdiile self has a life in them, it desires to have 
them defended. Wealth is attended with power, by which 
bargains and proceedings contrary to universal righteous- 
ness are supported; and hence oppression, carried on with 
worldly policy and order, clothes itself with the name of 
justice, and becomes like a seed of discord in the soul : 
and as a spirit which wanders from the pure habitation pre- 
vails, so the seeds of war swell, and sprout, and grow, and 
become strong until much fruit is ripened. Then cometh 



300 

the harvest spoken of by the prophet, which "is a heap, 
in the day of grief and desperate sorrows." Oh ! that we 
who declare against wars, and acknowledge our trust to be 
in God only, may walk in the light, and therein examine 
our foundation and motives in holding great eststes ! May 
we look upon our treasures, the furniture of our houses, 
and our garments, and try whether the seeds of war have 
nourishment in these our possessions. Holding treasures 
in the self-pleasing spirit is a strong plant, the fruit whereof 
ripens fast. A day of outward distress is coming, and Di- 
vine love calls to prepare against it. 



SEC. X. 

*' The heaven, even the heavens are the Lord's; but the 
earth hath he given to the children of men." As servants 
of God, our land or estates we hold under Him as his gifts; 
and in applying the profits, it is our duty to act con- 
sistently with the designs of our Benefactor. Imperfect 
men may give from motives of misguided affection, but 
perfect wisdom and goodness gives agreeably to his own 
nature; nor is this gift absolute, but conditional, for us to 
occupy as dutiful children, and not otherwise; for He alone 
is the true proprietor. '^ The world" saith He, " is mine, 
end the fulness thereof." The inspired lawgiver directed, 
that such of the Israelites as sold their inheritance, should 
sell it for a term only; and that they or their children 
should again enjoy it in the year of jubilee, settled on every 
fiftieth year. *' The land shall not be sold for ever, for 
the land is mine saith the Lord, for ye are strangers and 
sojourners with me." This was designed to prevent the 
rich from oppressing the poor by too much engrossing the 
land; and our blessed Redeemer said, " Till heaven and 
earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from 
the law, till all be fulfilled." 

When Divine love takes place in the hearts of any peo- 
ple, and they steadily act in a principle of universal right- 
eousness, then the true intent of the law is fulfilled, though 
their outward modes of proceeding may be various; but 



301 

when men are possessed by that spirft, hfnted at by the 
prophet, and looking over their weahh, say in their hearts, 
*' Have we not taken to us horns by our own strength?" 
they deviate from the Divine law, and do not count their 
possessions so strictly God's, nor the weak and poor entt- 
tied to so much of the increase thereof, but that they may 
indulge their desires, in conforming to worldMy pomp. 
Thus when house is joined to house, and field laid to field, 
until there is no place, and the poor are thereby straitened, 
though this is done by bargain and purchase, yet so far as 
it stands distinguished from universal love, so far that woe 
predicted by the prophet will accompany their proceedings. 
As he who first founded the earth was then the true prO" 
prietor of it, so he still remains, and though He hath given 
it to the children of men, so that multitudes of people have 
had their sustenance from it, while they continued here; 
yet He hath never alienated it, but his right is as good as 
at first; nor can any apply the increase of their possessions 
contrary to universal love, nor dispose of lands in a way, 
which they know tends to exalt some, by oppressing others, 
without being justly chargeable with usurpation, 



SEC. XI. 

If we count back one hundred and fifty years, and com- 
pare the inhabitants of Great Britain, with the nations of 
North America, on the like compass of ground, the latter 
I suppose would bear a small proportion to the former. 
On the discovery cf this fertile continent, many of those 
thickly settled inhabitants coming over, the natives at first 
generally treated them with kindness; and as they brought 
iron tools, and a variety of things for man's use, they glad- 
ly embraced the opportunity of traffic, and encouraged these 
foreigners to settle: I speak only of improvements made 
peaceably. 

Thus our Gracious Father, who beholds the situation of 
all his creatures, hath opened a way for a thickly settled 
land; now if we consider the turning of God's hand, in 
thus far giving us some room in this continent, and that the 

26 



802 

offspring of those ancient possessors of the country, lu 
whose eyes we appear as new-comers, are yet owners and 
inhabitants of the land adjoining us, and that their way of 
life, requiring much room, hath been transmitted to them 
from their predecessors, and probably settled by the cus- 
tom of a great many ages: we may see the necessity of 
cultivatinf^ the lands already obtained of them, and apply- 
ing the increase consistently with true wisdom, so as to ac- 
comodate the greatest number of people, before we have 
any right to plead, as members of the one great family, the 
equity of their assigning to us more of their possessions, 
and living in a way requiring less room. 

Did we all walk as became the followers of our blessed 
Saviour; were all the fruits of the country retained in it, 
which are sent abroad in return for strong drink, costly ar- 
ray, and other luxuries; and the labor and expense of im- 
porting and exporting applied to husbandry, and useful 
trades; a much greater number of people than now reside 
here, might, with the Divine blessing, live comfortably on 
the lands already granted us, by those ancient possessors 
of the country. If we faithfully serve God, who has given 
us some room in this land, T believe He will make some 
of us useful among them, both in publishing the doctrines 
of His Son, our Saviour, and in pointing out to them the 
advantages of cultivating the earth; while people are so 
much more thickly settled in some parts than others, a 
trade in some serviceable articles, may be to mutual ad- 
vantage, and may be carried on with much more regularity 
and satisfaction to a sincere christian, than trade now gen- 
erally is. 

One person continuing to live contrary to true wisdom, 
commonly draws others into connexion with him, and when 
these embrace the way the first hath chosen, their proceed- 
ings are like a wild vine, which springing from a single seed, 
and growing strong, its branches extend, and their little 
tendrils twist round all herbs and boughs of trees within 
their reach; and are so braced and locked in, that without 
much labor and great strength, they are not disentangled. 
Thus these customs, small in their beginning, as they in- 
crease promote business and traffic, and many depend on 



303 

them for a living; but it is evident that all business, which 
hath not its foundation in true wisdom, is not becoming a 
faithful follower of Christ, who loves God, not only with 
all his heart, but with all his strength and ability. And as 
the Lord is able, and will support those whose hearts are 
perfect towards him, in a way agreeably to his unerring wis- 
dom, it becomes us to meditate on the privileges of his 
children, to remember that "where the spirit of the Lord 
is, there is liberty," and that in joining to customs which 
we know are wrong, there is a departing from His govern- 
ment, and a certain degree of alienation from Him. Some 
well inclined people are entangled in such business, and 
at times may have a desire of being freed from it; our 
ceasing from these things may therefore be made helpful to 
them; and though for a time their business may fail; yet if 
they humbly ask wisdom of God, and are truly resigned 
to Him, he will not fail them, nor forsake them. He who 
created the earth, and hath provided sustenance for mil- 
lions of people in past ages, is as attentive to the necessi- 
ties of His children as ever. To press forward to perfec- 
tion is our duty; and If herein we lessen some business, by 
which some poor people earn their bread, the Lord who 
calls to cease from those things, will take care of those 
whose business fails by it, if they sincerely seek to Him. 
If the connexion we have with the inhabitants of these 
provinces, and our interest considered as distinct from 
others, engage us to promote plain living, in order to en- 
rich our country; though a plain life is In itself best, yet 
by living plain in a selfish spirit, we advance not in true 
religion. 

Divine love, which enlarges the heart towards mankind 
universally, is that alone which stops every corrupt stream, 
and opens those channels of business and commerce, in 
which nothing runs that is not pure; and so establishes our 
goings, that when in our labors we meditate on the univer- 
sal love of God, and the harmony of Holy Angels, the 
serenity of our minds may never be clouded, by remember- 
ing that some part of our employments tends to support 
customs, which have their foundation in the self-seeking 
spirit. 



304 



SEC. XII. 

While our minds are prepossessed m favor of customs^ 
distinguishable from perfect purity, we are in danger of 
not attending with singleness to that light, which opens ta 
our view the nature of universal righteousness. 

In the affairs of a thickly settled country, are variety of 
useful employments, besides tilling the earth; so that, for 
some men to have more land than is necessary to build 
upon, and to answer the occasions of their families, may 
consist with brotherhood; and from the various gifts which 
God hath bestowed on those employed in husbandry, for 
some to possess and occupy much more than others, may 
likewise so consist; but when any, on the strength of their 
possessions, demand such rent or interest, as necessitates 
their tenants to a closer application to business than our 
merciful Father designed for us, it puts the wheels of per- 
fect brotherhood out of order, and leads to employments, 
the promoting of which belongs not to the family of Christ, 
whose example in all points being a pattern of wisdom, the 
plainness and simplicity of his outward appearance may 
well make us ashamed to adorn our bodies with cosily ar- 
ray, or treasure up wealth by the least oppression. 

Though by claims grounded on prior possession, great 
inequality appears among men; yet the instructions of the 
Great Proprietor of the earth, are necessary to be attend- 
ed to in all our proceedings, as possessors or claimers of 
the soil. " The steps of a good man are ordered of the 
Lord," and those who are thus guidef^^ and whose hearts 
are enlarged in His love, give directions concernmg th^'T 
possessions agreeably thereto; and that claim which stands 
on universal righteousness, is a good right; but the con- 
tinuance of that right depends on properly applying the 
profits thereof The word right, commonly relates to our 
possessions: We say, a right of propriety to such a di-* 
vision of a province, or a clear indisputable right to the 
land within certain bounds. Thus, this word is continued 
as^ a remembrancer of the original intent of dividing the 



305 

land by boundaries; and implies, that it was equitably or 
rightly divided, that is divided according to righteousness. 
In this, that is in equity and righteousness, consists the 
strength of our claim. If we trace an unrighteous claim, 
and find gifts or grants proved by sufficient seals and wit- 
nesses, it gives not the claimant a right; for that which is 
opposite to righteousness, is wrong; and the nature of it 
must be changed before it can be right. 

Suppose twenty free men, professed followers of Christ, 
discovered an island, and that they with their wives, inde- 
pendent of all others, took possession of it, and dividing 
it equally, made improvements, and multiplied; suppose 
these first possessors, being generally influenced by true 
love, did with paternal regard look over the increasing con- 
dition of the inhabitants, and near the end of their lives, 
gave such directions concerning their respective possessions, 
as best suited the convenience of the whole, and tended 
to preserve love and harmony; and that their successors 
in the continued increase of people, generally followed 
their pious example, and pursued means the most effectual 
to keep oppression out of their island; but that one of these 
first settlers, from a fond attachment to one of his numer- 
ous sons, no more deserving than the rest, gives the chief 
of his lands to him; and by an instrument sufficiently wit- 
nessed, strongly expressed his mind and will:— Suppose this 
son, being landlord to his brethren and nephews, demands 
such a portion of the fruits of the earth, as may supply 
himself, his family, and some others; and that these others, 
thus supplied out of his store, are employed in adorning 
his building with curious engravings and paintings, prepar- 
ing carriages to ride in, vessels for his house, delicious 
meats, fine wrought apparel and furniture, all suiting that 
distinction lately arisen between him and the other inhabi- 
tants; and that having the absolute disposal of these nume- 
rous improvements, his power so increaseth, that in all con- 
ferences relative to the public affairs of the island, these 
plain, honest men, who are zealous for equitable establish- 
ments, find great difficulty in proceeding agreeably to their 
righteous inclinations: — Suppose this son from a fondness 
to one of his children, joined with a desire to continue this 

26* 



306 

grandeur under his own name, confirms the chief of his 
possessions to him, and thus, for many ages, there is one 
great landlord over near a twentieth part of this island, and 
the rest are poor oppressed people; to some of whom, 
from the manner of their education, joined with a notion of 
the greatness of their predecessors, labor is disagreeable; 
who therefore, by artful applications to the weakness, un- 
guardedness, and corruptions of others, in striving to get a 
living out of them, increase the difficulties among them, 
while the inhabitants of other parts, who guard against op- 
pression, and, with one consent, train up their children in 
frugality and useful labor, live more harmoniously: — If we 
trace the claims O^ the ninth or tenth of these great land- 
lords, down to the first possessor, and find the claim sup- 
ported throughout by instruments strongly drawn and wit- 
nessed ; after all, we could not admit a belief into our hearts, 
that he had a right to so great a portion of land, after such 
a numerous increase of inhabitants. 

The first possessor of that twentieth part, held no more, 
we suppose, than an equitable portion; but when the Lord, 
who first gave these twenty men possession of this island, 
unkaown to all others, gave being to numerous people who 
inhabited the twentieth part, whose natures required the 
fruits thereof for their sustenance, this great claimer of the 
soil, could not have a right to the whole, to dispose of it 
in gratifying his irregular desires; but they, as creatures 
of the most high God, possessor of Heaven and earth, had 
a right to part of what this great claimer held, though they 
bad no instruments to confirm their right: Thus oppres- 
sion in the extreme appears terrible; but oppression in more 
refined appearances, remains to be oppression, and when 
the smallest degree of it is cherished, it grows stronger and 
more extensive. 

To labor for a perfect redemption from this spirit of op- 
pression, is the great business of the whole family of Christ 
Jesus, in this world. 

JOHN WOOL MAN. 



A TRIBUTE TO THE MEMORY 



OF 



JOHN WOOLMAN. 



I'here is glory to me in thy name, 

Meek follower of Bethlehem's Child ! 

More touching by far than the splendors of fame, 
With which the vaia world is beguil'd : — 

*Tis the glory of goodness, the praise of the just, 

Which outlives even death, and is fragrant in dust. 

The warrior may win for his brow 

The proud victor chaplet of bay ; — 
But innocent blood sheds a stain on the bough. 

And dims its most beautiful ray ; 
While Humanity turns from the pageant aside ; 
By the sorrows and sufF 'rings of others supplied. 

Success on the Bard may bestow 
The myrtle-wreath meed of his lays ; 

And brightly and gaily that trophy may glow 
In the sunshine of popular praise : — 

But if Virtue have turn'd from his page with disgust, 

Soon, soon shall the trophy surrender its trust. 

A King in his crown may rejoice : 

And Rank of its titles be proud ; 
The Singer exult in the charms of his voice ; 

And Pomp in the gaze of a crowd ; 
And the martyr of wealth render'd poor by his store, 
Be bow'd to by those who his idol adore. 



308 

Yet the King must descend from his throne, 

When the day of Jehovah shall come ; 
And titles be trustless and pomp stand alone, 

And the voice of the Singer be dumb ; — 
And Mammon, once worshipp'd, be loath'd and abhorr'd, 

In the just, and the terrible day of the Lord ! 

Then who with acceptance shall stand 

In the presence of glory and light ; 
Having palm-branch, or censer, or harp in the hand, 

And array'd in apparel of white — 
While that volume its awful contents shall reveal. 
Which the Lion of Judah alone can unseal ? 

Even they who through great tribulation 

Have worshipp'd the Holy I AM ! 
Whose spiritual garments are pure by lavation 

In the all-cleansing blood of the Labib ! 
Tis these, and these only, by day, and by night. 
Shall kneel in his temple, and stand in his sight. 

From them must the chorus ascend 

Which shall peal through the confines of space. 

Of Holy! thrice Holy! and praise without end 
Unto God for the gift of His Grace; 

And praise to the Lamb, who for mortals was slain. 

Yet liveth, for ever and ever to reign!" 

In that heavenly and heart-thrilling song, 

O Woolman! can silence be thine ? 
Or wilt thou not join with the jubilant throng. 

In hosannas to glory divine ? 
Even such the fruition Faith whispers for thee 
Nor happier, nor holier, could recompense be. 

For since those miraculous days 

When marvellous wonders were rife, 
When the blind gaz'd with joy, and the dumb sang with praise. 

And the dead were restored unto life, — 
I know not of one whom my heart could allow 
More worthy the name of Apostle than thou. 



309 

Though not upon thee were outpour *d 

The gifts of that primitive age, 
When wonders and signs spoke the power of the Lord, 

And baffled Priest, Monarch, and Sage — 
In the heart's secret temple an altar was thine, 
And a priesthood was given in the innermost shrine. 

Not to outward and visible sense 

Did that priesthood, or altar appeal ; 
Yet pure were the oracles uttered from thence, 

And stamped with a questionless seal, — 
A seal — which the spirit that felt them confest 
By the power of thy crucified Master imprest. 

His glory alone was thy aim; — 

His kingdom's advance was thy scope; — 
And THE Cross which He bore, with its sufF'ring and shame, 

The object and end of thy hope ! 
By faith in this hope was thy spirit sustain'd, 
Through that Cross was the crown of apostleship gain'd. 

Then well may I think of thy name 

Meek follower of Bethlehem's Child! 
As enwreath'd with a glory more touching than fame. 

By which the vain world is beguil'd; — 
That glory by Christ and His Gospel, made known. 
Which proclaims not thy praise but thy Master's alone ! 

BERNARD BARTON. 
12th m:0. 8th, 1823. 



ERRATA. 



On page 20, 3d line from" the bottom, for wordly, read, worldly. 

"" top, for eeling, read feeling. 

bottom, for wordly, read" worldly, 
top, insert I, before was watching. 
" ales, read absolute, 
bottom, for too, read two. 
" " tohers, read others. 
" " appoitinng, read appointing. 
" " exorcise, read exercise, 
top, " enabling, read enabled. 
" " coast, read cost. 

" " state, read estates. 

" " favorod, read favored. 

" " specious, read spacious. 

'' unde, read under. 
" " out proceedings, read our pro- 

ceedings. 
" " freely given them up, read free- 

ly give them up. 
bottom, '• attended, read attend, 
top, '' fasaion, read fashion. 
" " part, read parts, 

bottom, " into, read unto. 

" " may be spread, omit be. 
top, " customs, read custom 

" " spacious, read specious, 

bottom for any, read an. 
" " enstrangement. read estrange- 
ment, 
top " as it is Heaven, read as it is 

in Heaven 
top, " to suffer in, omit in. 
top, " for in the suffering state, read in 
the true suffering state. 
26, 4th " " bottom, " for our innocence, read of our 

innocence. 
393, nth " " " for irom, read from. ♦ 



20, 


17th 


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31 


17th 


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31 


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93 


4th 


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97, 


14th 


i: a 


115, 


19th 


u a 


118, 


18th 


11 It 


133, 


bottom line 


149, 


26th 


It tt 


161, 


14th 


it it 


168, 


10th 


(( it 


191, 


2d 


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196, 


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